Maison Les Alexandrins Syrah

Maison Nicolas Perrin brings together the scions of two of the great families of the Rhône, Nicolas Jaboulet, formerly of the eponymous winery in Tain, and the Perrin family of Chateau de Beaucastel. This joint venture micro-negociant was created in 2009 with the sole aim of producing top quality Northern Rhone wines. Nicolas is able to source the best fruit and wines from growers and producers that he has formed a long standing relationship with, while the Perrin family bring expertise in winemaking and blending, as well as the use of their cellars. The partnership stems from a long standing friendship, a shared love of gastronomy and a philosophy to create wines that represent the best of their appellation.

Vineyards

The vines for the Syrah Viognier average 15 years and are planted on terraces around the Rhone. Blending from various vineyards gives the wine complexity as well as consistency. The granite soils provide structure and minerality. Some vineyards contain polished galets that retain the heat of the sun during the day which is reflected back to the vine at night. This effect provides perfect ripeness, a quality that can be tasted in this round and smooth wine.

Vinification

The grapes were cold-macerated before fermenting to extract the flavour and colour from the skins. Part of the wine was aged for five to six months in stainless steel tanks which helped keep the fresh aromatics of the grapes. The remainder was aged in oak casks for the same amount of time to help extract the tannins.

Tasting Notes

This wine is ruby red in colour with purple hints. On the nose, there are notes of blackcurrant, strawberry and blackberry. On the palate, the tannins are round and soft, well-balanced and fruit forward. The softness and finesse of the 5% Viognier creates a wine that is more powerful and full bodied than a simple Syrah.