Cap Nord blanc 2023, Crozes Hermitage Combier | Rhône

Domaine Combier 's white Crozes-Hermitage Cap Nord is one of the finest cuvées in the Northern Rhône. This micro-selected parcel is planted on a small hillside in Mercurol, between 90 and 120 meters above sea level, where the clay-limestone soils are mixed with loess and sandy deposits. In addition to organic viticulture, this cuvée of Marsanne and Roussanne undergoes a special treatment, as its winemaking distinguishes the two grape varieties. The Roussanne is aged in Wine Globe to preserve its purity, while the Marsanne rests in experienced oak foudres to patinate its material without marking the wine. Final blending takes place before bottling. Domaine Combier 's precise approach aims for a slender expression of Cap Nord, sharper than the appellation's classic cuvée, while retaining a clear reading of the Crozes Hermitage terroir.

Philippe Mischler, sommelier at Mundovin : The Cap Nord white cuvée is one of the finest I've tasted from the Northern Rhône in recent years. Its freshness and remarkable minerality put it on a par with the great wines of the Northern Rhône Valley, for only a fraction of the price. As you can see, the Crozes Hermitage Cap Nord blanc is a real winner!

The engaging nose opens with an explosion of complexity: white peach, honeysuckle, iris, lime blossom, apricot and candied citron mingle with fresh notes of white pepper and beeswax.

The palate reveals a streamlined body and a frank acidity that contrasts with the appellation's standards. Flavors of citrus and white fruit find their counterpoint in the silky minerality that animates the wine's slender body. The fresh, saline finish has a complex, delicately spicy persistence.