The Crozes-Hermitage Appellation
Située au cœur de la destination Vallée du Rhône nord, Crozes-Hermitage est une appellation emblématique, reconnue AOC (Appellation d’Origine Contrôlée) depuis 1937. Réputée pour ses rouges fruités issus de la Syrah, elle offre aussi de superbes blancs à la fraîcheur florale. Une belle invitation à la dégustation*… avec modération, bien sûr, lors d’un séjour en Vallée du Rhône nord.
A Diverse Vineyard
The appellation now covers 11 communes: Érôme, Serves-sur-Rhône, Gervans, Larnage, Tain-l’Hermitage, Mercurol, Chanos-Curson, Beaumont-Monteux, La Roche-de-Glun, and Pont-de-l’Isère.
With 1,650 hectares, it is the largest AOC in the Northern Rhône Valley. Here, we speak of the terroirs of Crozes-Hermitage in the plural: varied soils, different exposures, and a range of nuances that contribute to the richness and diversity of its wines.
A Mosaic of Soils for Unique Wines
The vineyard is characterized by great geological heterogeneity:
Rolled pebbles around Mercurol
Kaolinitic white earths in Larnage
Granitic hillsides in the northern part of the appellation
This natural diversity, combined with the expertise of the winemakers, shapes wines of character, expressive yet accessible. Wines for discerning enthusiasts as well as curious newcomers discovering the Northern Rhône Valley.
Kaolin: A friable white clay rich in aluminum silicates, notably found in Larnage.
Lush Reds, Floral Whites
Red wines, which are predominant, are made exclusively from Syrah, an indigenous grape that originated right here in the Rhône Valley. Contrary to some myths, it is neither from Syria nor Syracuse!
White wines, representing about 10% of production, are made from Marsanne and Roussanne—two emblematic grape varieties offering subtle wines, sometimes round and generous, sometimes taut and mineral-driven.
An Appellation for Every Palate
Crozes-Hermitage is known for its approachability. Even novice palates find pleasure in its wines: clear aromas, notes of red and black fruits, and an accessible structure. These are wines meant to be enjoyed in a convivial atmosphere, without complicated rules, but always with passion.
A Certified Destination for a Complete Experience
The Northern Rhône Valley destination, certified Vignobles & Découvertes, now brings together more than 250 committed partners: accommodations, restaurants, wine shops, cultural sites, and of course, winemakers.
Among them, … Crozes-Hermitage producers open their doors for visits, tastings, and authentic moments of sharing.
A Customized Wine Route
Let our website guide you to create your personalized wine route to explore estates, meet winemakers, and discover all the facets of this generous appellation. Throughout the year, oenological, cultural, and festive events are organized to experience the vineyard in a different way.
