The 2020 Domaine Alain Graillot Crozes Hermitage La Guiraude, made from Syrah grapes, hails from France's esteemed Northern Rhone region. This red wine has garnered significant praise from multiple reviewers, highlighting its complex character and noteworthy craftsmanship.
James Suckling, scoring it an impressive 95, describes the wine as having "a fragrant nose of spiced cherries, ripe blackberries, dried herbs, baking spices and hints of earth." He notes the wine's "finely grained tannins" and "a mineral edge," with a "long savory and spicy finish," suggesting it will be at its best after 2026.
Wine Spectator awarded the wine a score of 93, noting it as "sultry and smoldering." The review emphasizes a "cherry and blackberry core" and describes the palate as "powerful and densely packed" with "softening tannins." The finish is described as "long, salty, iron-infused," with a polished texture, suitable for drinking now through 2032. The limited production of 500 cases, with only 100 cases imported, adds to its appeal.
Vinous, with a score of 94, praises the 2020 vintage for outperforming its 2022 counterpart. Nicolas Greinacher from Vinous highlights "precise black cherry, red plum, cedar, and pencil shaving" notes, calling it "full-bodied, polished and complex." The wine is noted for its "ample personality and spot-on balance," culminating in a "fresh, savory finish."
Overall, the 2020 Domaine Alain Graillot Crozes Hermitage La Guiraude is characterized by its fragrant aroma, robust flavors, and layered complexity. Reviewers agree on its excellent craftsmanship, making it a standout choice for Syrah enthusiasts and collectors alike.