Clusel-Roch "Serine" Syrah Vin de France '20

Based in Verenay, the northernmost village in Côte Rôtie, this tiny 3.5-hectare domaine is run by Gilbert Clusel, his wife, Brigit, and their son, Guillaume. Gilbert’s grandfather planted the foundation of the winery in 1935, the vineyard now known as Les Grandes-Places, using a low-yielding selection of Syrah called Sérine. All subsequent plantings have been selection massale from that vineyard, a rarity in the region as higher yielding material became more prevalent. The Clusel family were also early believers in the advantages of organic farming, and would become pioneers of the movement within the region as they converted fully in 1990.

Made in a style meant for relatively early drinking, the "Sérine" cuvée is deep and savory, yet fresh and focused. The grapes are hand harvested and partially destemmed, and about one-third are fermented as whole bunches. Fermentation is carried out with native yeasts, and the wine is aged in large neutral barrels. 

This is a classic expression of Northern Rhône Syrah—earthy and meaty, with notes of cracked peppercorn, dark cherry and black raspberry, plum, and dried herbs. Finely structured, lively, and grippy on the palate, try it with grilled eggplant or mushroom dishes, or a daube de boeuf.