Discover Exceptional Value: Choose Wines from Crozes-Hermitage and Saint-Joseph in the Rhône

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The Northern Rhône region is renowned for its top-tier red wine appellations, notably Hermitage and Côte-Rôtie. However, these acclaimed wines often come with hefty price tags, making them less accessible for many wine enthusiasts. Fortunately, Crozes-Hermitage and Saint-Joseph offer fantastic alternatives that deliver quality at more reasonable prices. These two appellations are increasingly favored by sommeliers in search of value and character outside the prestigious names of the Northern Rhône.

At the heart of Northern Rhône red wines lies the Syrah grape, known for its robust, dark, and spicy profile. Among the two, Crozes-Hermitage stands out as the larger appellation, nearly twice the size of Saint-Joseph. Generally, wines from Crozes-Hermitage tend to be more fruit-forward and accessible, while Saint-Joseph wines are typically more structured, exhibiting greater tannins and a stony minerality. However, regardless of the appellation, the caliber of the producer remains the key determinant of quality.

To explore the exceptional wines from these lesser-known but impressive appellations, consider these seven selections from Crozes-Hermitage and Saint-Joseph.

2022 Maison Les Alexandrins Crozes-Hermitage ($29)

This collaborative effort from three esteemed Rhône winemakers—Nicolas Jaboulet, Guillaume Sorrel, and Alexandre Caso—has quickly gained recognition since its establishment in 2015. This striking red wine features lasting flavors of black currant and blackberry, complemented by soft tannins that showcase its appeal.

2020 E. Guigal Crozes-Hermitage ($36)

Philippe Guigal, a third-generation winemaker of the famed E. Guigal winery, describes this wine as an embodiment of northern Rhône Syrah’s freshness. It presents a polished and balanced profile, enhanced by subtle spiciness and vibrant blackberry flavors underscored by hints of white pepper.

2021 Alain Graillot Crozes-Hermitage ($49)

Alain Graillot was instrumental in reviving Crozes-Hermitage’s reputation in the 1980s, and today his sons, Antoine and Maxime, carry on that legacy. This wine presents an expressive palate reminiscent of green peppercorns and dried herbs, marking it as a remarkable example of Rhône Syrah.

2020 Delas Domaine des Grands Chemins Crozes-Hermitage ($49)

While Crozes-Hermitage may not always mirror the grandeur of Hermitage, this cuvée stands out with its polished power and rich, dark fruit profile. Layered with savoriness, it offers notes of leather, wet ink, and wild herbs, affirming the parallels to its more esteemed counterpart.

2021 Paul Jaboulet AÎné Domaine de Thalabert Crozes-Hermitage ($50)

Domaine de Thalabert, which has belonged to the Jaboulet family since 1834, features grapes from some of the oldest vines in the Crozes-Hermitage appellation. This full-bodied red is structured, with blackberry fruit enhanced by nuances of licorice, earthy undertones, and lavender notes.

2021 Domaine Coursodon L’Olivaie Saint-Joseph ($60)

This Syrah, crafted by a fourth-generation producer in Saint-Joseph, dazzles with its fragrant profile, featuring aromas of blackberry liqueur, mint, and violets. The wine offers a luscious initial taste that transitions into a more austere, mineral finish, making it a candidate for aging, though its current beauty is hard to resist.

2021 Julien Cecillon Saint-Joseph Babylone ($45)

Julien Cecillon, a rising star in winemaking, initially ventured into a banking career. However, discontent with that path led him back to his roots in the Rhône Valley. His Saint-Joseph Babylone exemplifies his talent with its smoky, savory character and polished profile, sourced from venerable old-vine parcels, some of which exceed a century in age.

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