The 2023 Domaine Marc Sorrel Hermitage Le Gréal is one of the Northern Rhône’s most profound and sought-after Syrahs, representing the pinnacle of Marc Sorrel’s traditional winemaking. Produced from old vines planted in 1926 across the legendary Le Méal and Les Greffieux lieux-dits, with a small percentage of co-planted Marsanne and Roussanne, Le Gréal is only made in vintages that meet the estate’s exacting standards. Domaine Marc Sorrel remains one of Hermitage’s great traditional producers, crafting wines with whole-bunch fermentation, minimal intervention and exceptional ageing potential. The outstanding 2023 vintage has produced a wine of extraordinary concentration while maintaining remarkable finesse and purity, earning 100 points from James Suckling and 97 points from Decanter.
The nose is intensely complex and captivating, revealing aromas of blackberry, mulberry and black cherry layered with violet, cracked black pepper and smoked herbs. As the wine opens, notes of iodine, graphite and olive tapenade emerge, complemented by hints of cedar, licorice and crushed granite. Despite its immense concentration, the aromatic profile remains remarkably floral and refined, with extraordinary purity and lift that distinguish Le Gréal from more overtly powerful Hermitage wines.
On the palate, it is full-bodied with extraordinary concentration, silky tannins and immense mineral drive. Layers of black cherry, blackberry and dark plum unfold across the palate, supported by savoury notes of black olive, pepper, smoked herbs and crushed stone. The whole-bunch fermentation contributes remarkable freshness, aromatic complexity and finely structured tannins, while the granite slopes of Hermitage provide exceptional energy and precision. Despite its monumental scale, the wine possesses an almost weightless elegance, with vibrant acidity carrying the fruit through an exceptionally long, persistent and beautifully detailed finish marked by dark fruits, spice, florals and granite-driven minerality. The style is both powerful and ethereal, combining immense structure with extraordinary finesse.
Ben’s Recommendation:
At Wine More Cellars, this is one of the world's greatest expressions of Syrah and an essential bottle for serious collectors of the Northern Rhône. Compared to richer, more opulent Hermitage styles, Marc Sorrel Le Gréal offers extraordinary refinement, mineral precision and a sense of effortless balance that places it among the elite wines of the appellation. The exceptional 2023 vintage has produced a wine with incredible purity and structure, but this is ultimately a bottle built for patience. While already breathtaking with extended decanting, its true complexity will emerge over decades. Drink from 2035 onwards or cellar confidently through to 2055 and beyond. Perfect with roast lamb, venison, beef Wellington, wild game, truffle-infused dishes or the finest French cuisine.
