E. Guigal Crozes Hermitage Rouge 2021

Winery Background and History

Maison E. Guigal, established in 1946 in Ampuis, Northern Rhône, is renowned for its mastery over Syrah and Viognier in top appellations such as Hermitage, Côte-Rôtie, and Condrieu. The “Collection” range, which includes Crozes-Hermitage Rouge, represents wines that offer Guigal’s quality at relatively accessible price points while still reflecting the winemaker’s craftsmanship, vineyard selection, and terroir expression. Over decades Guigal has expanded holdings and optimized vineyards, always emphasizing balance between fruit, structure, and aging potential

Producer and Wine Maker

This wine is produced by Philippe Guigal and his winemaking team. Grapes are hand-selected from vineyards in Guigal’s Crozes-Hermitage holdings, including old vines (~35 years). Vinification involves temperature-controlled fermentations, extended maceration, and careful use of oak for maturation. Guigal’s cooperage is internal, and barrel selections are chosen to support structure, not overshadow the signature Syrah fruit profile

Vineyards and Micro Climate

Vineyards for the 2021 edition are located in the northern sector of Crozes-Hermitage, especially around Gervans, Mercurol, Larnage and adjacent slopes. Soils are granite, clay-silt, sandy gravel; climate is continental with warm days, cool nights and significant diurnal range. The 2021 vintage was more moderate than some others, with summer warmth followed by cooler, fresher evenings preserving acidity, aromatic lift and tension in the wine

Vinification & Aging Methods

After hand harvest and sorting, the grapes undergo alcoholic fermentation in temperature controlled vats. Maceration on skins lasts about three to four weeks. Following fermentation the wine is aged approximately 18-24 months in oak barrels, partly new oak, partly older barrels, and often large foudres combined with barriques. Oak aging is used to add spice and structure while maintaining the purity of the varietal fruit

Tasting notes

Deep ruby in color. Aromas of red berries—strawberry, cherry—mixed with blackberry, along with smoke, pepper, licorice and dried herbs. On the palate the wine is rich but balanced: supple tannins, bright acidity, juicy briar fruit, vanilla and cedar from oak, touch of cinnamon spice, savory undertones. Finish is long and clean, with herbal and mineral streaks giving precision

Food & Wine Pairing

Excellent with grilled or roasted red meats such as lamb or beef; venison or game birds also complement its flavors. Dishes with herbs (thyme, rosemary, oregano) enhance the wine’s herbal and smoky character. Pairs well with aged cheeses, mushroom sauces, or cured meats. Also works with hearty stews or dishes with dark berry reductions

Service Methods and Temperatures

Serve at 16-18 °C. Decanting for about 45 minutes, especially if still young, helps open the wine and soften tannins. Use large red wine glass to allow aroma lift. Once opened, enjoy over a few hours; cover and let stand for optimal aroma and flavor evolution

Storage and Aging Potential

2021 has good cellar potential. Best drinking window from about 2025 through 2033-2035. Cellaring under stable conditions (cool ~12-14 °C, moderate humidity, dark) will allow development of tertiary notes such as dried herbs, leather, earth, and integrated oak while fruit remains alive

Grape Varietals & percentage used

100 % Syrah

ABV

13.0 % 

Scores

James Suckling 91