Vidal Fleury Crozes-Hermitage

Blackcurrant, violet, and pepper on the nose with a smooth palate of black fruit, mineral and a smoke. Crozes-Hermitage is the Northern Rhône in the appellation that surrounds the famed vineyards of Hermitage. These grapes are sourced from the southern part of the Crozes-Hermitage appellation along the left bank of the Rhône River. About the Winery: Vidal Fleury was founded in 1781 as a wine grower and proprietor of vineyards in the renowned Côte Rôtie appellation in the Northern Rhône Valley. With more than two centuries of continuous operation, it is undisputedly the oldest functioning winery and wine firm in the Rhone Valley. Thomas Jefferson even visited in 1787, calling the wines “justly celebrated.” Today they continue these traditions and true to the founder's goals. the winery continues to produce wines that are the finest expression of their appellation. They now produce red, white, and rosé wines from throughout the Rhône Valley. Critical Acclaim: 2016: 91 points Vinous "Opaque ruby. Black and blue fruits, licorice and violet scents pick up a smoky quality and a hint of espresso with air. Bitter cherry and cassis flavors are sharpened by a vein of zesty minerality, and a salty olive note appears on the back half. The sweet, chewy, persistent finish displays solid tannic grip and lingering suggestions of succulent herbs and candied licorice."