Though based in the southern Rhône, superstar vigneron Louis Barruol possesses an almost obsessive passion and scholarly expertise in the great terroirs further upriver, with a soft spot for the wines of Côte Rôtie. For several years now, Louis and Kermit have collaborated with the mutual goal of creating timeless Syrahs capable of enchanting with their magical aroma and ethereal texture.

Louis sources fruit from the choicest parcels, ensuring the grapes are grown with care and harvested by hand. He vinifies with a light touch, using native yeasts and aging in neutral barrels. Kermit then steps in to blend the wine, selecting only the best of the best. The pair has really hit their stride, as you will see with this bottling from the lieu-dit Nève. This plot is extremely steep with perfect southeast sun exposure, an ideal habitat for Syrah. Louis, never content to do things the easy way, works exclusively with Sérine: this ancient, local clone of Syrah may be finicky in the vineyard, but it yields wines of great finesse and aromatic intensity.
    With a heady, inviting perfume suggestive of violets, leather, and roasted spices, here is a throwback to the Côte Rôties of a different era. While tightly wound, the palate is delicate and supple, and will provide immediate pleasure or reward patient cellaring. You won’t want to miss this illustrious collaboration and the truly formidable wine it has produced. –Anthony Lynch