Domaine Albert Belle Les Pierrelles Crozes-Hermitage 2021  £27.40

DOMAINE ALBERT BELLE LES PIERRELLES CROZES-HERMITAGE

Domaine Albert Belle is one of a handful of producers achieving the exciting potential of this area and justifying its reputation as one of the classic regions of France. The Domaine’s white wines are produced from a blend of Marsanne and Roussanne, fermented in stainless steel at around 18 to 20 centigrade. Philippe Belle oak matures a quarter of the blend of Crozes-Hermitage and half of the Hermitage enhancing the full, ripe flavours and attractive, complex aromas of the wines. Having rapidly forged an enviable reputation for interesting and crafted examples of Crozes-Hermitage at affordable prices, the Belle Family is one of the stars of Northern Rhône.

The red wines are produced traditionally in temperature controlled closed tanks using whole bunches of grapes and extended maceration. They are then matured in oak for between 12 and 18 months with 20 to 25% new barrels each year. "Les Pierrelles" is produced in the commune of Pont de l'Isere on a stony vineyard with poor soils, the wine is relatively forward, with lovely textured tannin and aromas of red fruits.

This is an example of a rich, savoury wine from one of the leading lights of the region. Well balanced with dark fruits and subtle spice combined with well integrated wood.