Matthieu Barret Crozes-Hermitage La Banniere 2024

Grape: Syrah
Vintage: 2024
Type: Red

This Northern Rhône syrah is sourced from organically and biodynamically farmed vineyards within the Les Chassis sub-region. Seventh-generation winemaker Matthieu Barret targets low yields on clay-limestone soils scattered with smooth river pebbles to lock in fruit density. The hand-harvested grapes undergo a spontaneous native fermentation using sixty percent whole bunches and forty percent destemmed fruit inside concrete tanks. The winemaking avoids modern oak influence, focusing entirely on preserving a fresh, juicy regional expression.

It pours a dark ruby color, releasing classic aromatics of violets, cracked black pepper, and fresh olive tapenade. On the palate, the medium-bodied frame is fruit-forward and energetic, delivering a crunchy texture filled with blackberry and plum. A clean thread of limestone-driven acidity cuts right through the center, keeping the mouthfeel light. Remarkably smooth tannins shape the mid-palate cleanly, making the wine highly approachable in its youth. It finishes long, dry, and slightly savory.