The 2024 Equis Equinoxe Crozes-Hermitage is a beautifully vibrant and fruit-driven Northern Rhône Syrah from Maxime Graillot and Thomas Schmittel’s highly regarded Equis project. Sourced primarily from organically farmed gravelly vineyards in Pont-de-l’Isère, the wine is crafted in a fresher, earlier-drinking style than many traditional Crozes-Hermitage bottlings while still retaining the unmistakable spice and savoury complexity of the appellation. Fully destemmed fruit is fermented in concrete and large tronconique vats with a touch of carbonic maceration before ageing for nine months in the same vessels, preserving purity, freshness and supple texture.
The nose reveals blackberry, red cherry and wild raspberry layered alongside violets, cracked pepper and wisps of smoke, giving the wine remarkable aromatic lift and Rhône character. On the palate, it is medium-bodied with silky tannins, vibrant acidity and a crunchy, juicy core of dark berry fruit. Layers of hedgerow fruit, spice and savoury nuance unfold with excellent freshness and energy, finishing bright, supple and beautifully drinkable with impressive finesse for young Crozes-Hermitage. Critics have praised the wine’s gentle tannins, floral aromatics and approachable structure, highlighting its immediate charm and balance.
Ben’s Recommendation:
The 2024 Equis Equinoxe Crozes-Hermitage is a superb modern Northern Rhône Syrah — vibrant, savoury and beautifully refined with outstanding freshness and drinkability. Perfect with grilled lamb, charcuterie, roast chicken, sausages, mushroom dishes or smoky barbecue flavours. Enjoy now through 2032.
