This wine is made exclusively from the "Les Grandes Vignes" plot situated at the peak of the Hermitage hillside at around 325 m altitude. This primarily south-facing plot forms an amphitheatre of semicircular vine terraces. In the very best years, production is limited to 1,800 to 2,000 bottles. This wine is made exclusively from the Syrah varietal. The wine is de-vatted before being racked and transferred to the barrels. The malolactic fermentation takes place in the barrel and is followed by 20 months of closely-monitored ageing. To ensure that the wine retains its character, finesse and subtlety, only wood with a fine and extra-fine grain is selected for the barrels. For the same reasons, the percentage of new oak is kept to no more than 30 or 40%.
The nose discloses aromas of spice and leather intertwined with deep berry aromas (blackberry, redcurrant) and heady floral notes, liquorice and incense. Its richness, complexity and elegance are by no means a contradiction.
The finest granite soils of the Hermitage hillside are to thank for this wine's incredible minerality and finesse. The wine is rich and dense on entry to the palate, where it shows an elegant, broad and flavoursome character.
The ripe, smooth and well-integrated tannins contribute to the wine's powerful yet harmonious structure.
The palate reveals the same aromas as those found on the nose with nuances of blueberry, raspberry, violet and bitter chocolate.
The "Ligne de Crête" is characterised by its exceptional structure, harmony and balance.
HERMITAGE
Vineyard : The grapes used to make "Ligne de Crête" are grown in the highest-lying vines that Delas Frères owns and cares for on its own on the Hermitage hillside in the "Les Grandes Vignes" lieu-dit.
Soils : Rock base of primary geological origins. This is where the layer of soil is at its thinnest and where the Syrah varietal is able to delve the furthest into the AOC's deep substrata.
Climate : This parcel's altitude and moderately windy climate bring an element of coolness to the vines during hot summers.
Production area: 2ha31; anual production about 18 hl
Grape varieties : 100% Syrah
