A profound and beautifully mature Northern Rhône Syrah from one of Hermitage’s most respected traditional producers, Le Gréal is Marc Sorrel’s flagship red, produced from exceptionally situated old vines on the celebrated Le Méal and Les Greffieux lieux-dits. The outstanding 2005 vintage combines immense concentration and structure with the savoury complexity, mineral depth and elegance that define great Hermitage.
Tasting Notes:
Deep garnet in colour, the nose is intense and wonderfully complex, revealing aromas of blackberry, black cherry and cassis alongside violet, cracked black pepper and smoked meat. With time in the glass, layers of leather, olive, dried herbs, liquorice and earthy spice emerge. The palate is powerful and concentrated yet beautifully balanced, with dark fruit framed by fine, mature tannins and vibrant acidity. Notes of pepper, iron, smoke and stony minerality add remarkable depth, leading to an exceptionally long, savoury and persistent finish.
Winemaking:
Produced exclusively from Syrah, predominantly from very old vines in the prized Le Méal and Les Greffieux vineyards on the slopes of Hermitage. Marc Sorrel follows a traditional, minimal-intervention approach, with fermentation and extended maturation designed to preserve the intensity and individuality of these exceptional sites. Ageing in seasoned oak allows the extraordinary concentration of the fruit and mineral character of the terroir to remain at the forefront, while extended bottle ageing brings further harmony and complexity.
Food Pairing:
An exceptional partner for roast or slow-cooked lamb, venison, beef and other richly flavoured game dishes. It also pairs beautifully with wild mushrooms, black truffle, braised beef cheeks and mature hard cheeses. Careful decanting to remove sediment is recommended, allowing the wine time to reveal its remarkable aromatic complexity.
ABV: 13.5%
