The vineyards for Silène are hillside vineyards located in Larnage and Gervans. It is rare for Crozes to come from hillside granitic soil, as most of Crozes is situated on the alluvial valley floor. The granite soil produces a wine with more backbone and structure. The idea behind this Crozes is to balance the fruit of Syrah without compromising the tightness given by the granite. 50% of the Crozes comes from a parcel of young vines planted in 2003 and owned by Domaine Jean Louis Chave. The parcel sits on a beautiful terroir on the rear east-facing flank of the Hermitage hill. The blend continues to evolve as Jean-Louis buys more land in Crozes.
"This suave version leads with expressive notes of ripe pomegranate and plum before giving way to savory tones of bay leaf, cured meat, lavender and warm earth. Round and mouthfilling but not heavy, with a lifted feel to the fresh, characterful finish, showing mineral depth. Drink now through 2028. 1,500 cases made, 300 cases imported."