Crozes-Hermitage
Situated between the Rhône and the Isère, Crozes-Hermitage is the northernmost appellation on the left bank of the river.
These contrasting lands are where Domaine Vendome crafts the majority of its collection: precise, elegant cuvées, true to their terroir.
Key facts
- Left bank of the Rhône
- 11 communes
- Planting density: 4,000 vines/ha
- Average yield: 40 hl/ha
- Manual work in the vineyard
- Area under vine: approx. 2,000 ha
A wealth of singular terroirs
Crozes-Hermitage is the largest Northern Rhône appellation, stretching across eleven communes in the Drôme.
Here, the rich geological diversity gives each wine its own distinct identity.
Domaine Vendome’s vineyard spreads across five communes, each offering a wide range of soil types:
- Aeolian sands (loess) in Larnage and Crozes-Hermitage, where Marsanne and Roussanne thrive.
- Rolled pebbles and red clays in the southern part of the appellation – the Châssis plain – land of generous, fleshy Syrah.
- Loess and granite on the higher elevations of Larnage, Crozes-Hermitage and Érôme, shaping taut and racy wines.
Find out how we highlight the diversity of our soils: Vineyard & Cellar.
A cru defined by elegance and generosity
Crozes‑Hermitage is one of the Northern Rhône Valley’s most approachable crus, prized for its balance and sheer drinkability.
Its wines combine structure and freshness, fruit and finesse, offering immediate pleasure while retaining excellent ageing potential.
Best known for its red wines, the appellation also produces fine whites – as rare as they are distinctive – notably at Domaine Vendome, where they account for almost 30% of production.
Discover our Crozes-Hermitage
Crozes-Hermitage Rouge
Syrah, the star of Crozes‑Hermitage
Often described as the signature grape of the Northern Rhône Valley, Syrah is the only red grape authorised in Crozes‑Hermitage (with up to 15% Marsanne or Roussanne allowed).
Here, the variety fully expresses its classic Northern Rhône profile:
- aromas of red fruits, violet and sweet spices,
- a silky texture and fine tannins,
- a fine balance of intensity and freshness.
Wines for immediate pleasure, which will also reward patience with great elegance and striking depth.
Crozes-Hermitage Blanc
The harmony of white grape varieties
Rarer yet equally expressive, Crozes-Hermitage white wines stand out for their finesse and volume.
Marsanne and Roussanne complement each other beautifully:
- the former brings freshness and aromatic complexity, while
- the latter adds structure and fullness.
Dry white wines revealing floral and lightly honeyed notes, underpinned by fine mineral tension, ideally suited to grilled fish, poultry in sauce or mature cheeses.
Pairing & tasting
Domaine Vendome’s Crozes‑Hermitage wines are best enjoyed young, for their vibrant fruit, or after a few years in bottle, when they develop greater complexity.
- Red wines: grilled red meats, roast lamb, tender game, and herb‑infused dishes.
- White wines: fish, creamy poultry dishes, and well‑matured cheeses.
Go further
- Discover how we shape our Cornas wines
- Explore our IGP Collines Rhodaniennes wines
- Find out more about Domaine Vendome and its story