Laurent Fayolle is a prominent figure in Crozes-Hermitage, operating from his family domaine in the northern village of Gervans. Established by his grandfather in 1959, the domaine initially sold grapes to negociants while producing small quantities of wine for local consumers. As grape prices fell, the grandfather decided to vinify all his grapes, and within two years, he was exporting to the USA and the UK. For three decades, the domaine collaborated with Tony Laithwaite from Direct Wines, Laithwaites, and Sunday Times Wine Club in the UK.
In the 1970s, Laurent’s father and brother took over leadership and worked together until the next generation had differing visions for the domaine, leading to a split in 2000. Laurent, along with his father, focused on organic farming, which presented challenges due to the hilly terrain of northern Crozes. They even utilized horses to manage the steeper vineyard plots, allowing the vines to adjust to organic practices over time.
Laurent notes the evolution in their winemaking techniques compared to two decades prior, stating, "In 2024, if you look at the vineyards from the top of the hill, you can see the expression of the vineyards by how the growers farm." This variation became particularly noticeable in the 2024 vintage.
The Gervans area, recognized as the original part of the appellation, has been gaining attention recently. Laurent mentions, “For a long time, a few winemakers have tried to show the expression of wines from this area,” highlighting that figures like Chapoutier and Jaboulet have contributed to elevating the region’s fame.
The 2022 vintage saw white grapes harvested starting August 24th. By 2023, the warm climate led to lower acidity levels initially, prompting the decision to prioritize acidity over alcohol content during harvest, resulting in the picking of whites from September 1-5.
The Wines
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Laurent Fayolle Sens Crozes-Hermitage Blanc 2023
A blend of 60% Marsanne and 40% Roussanne, characterized by its bold and nuanced profile with rich fruit and a mineral character. Rated 94/100. -
Laurent Fayolle Les Pontaix Crozes-Hermitage Blanc 2023
Produced from 70-year-old Marsanne, this wine offers depth and texture with apple, ripe pear, and white peach notes. Rated 94/100. -
Laurent Fayolle Crozes-Hermitage Sens 2023
A 100% destemmed blend showcasing a fine, expressive profile with a balance of red cherry fruit and savoriness. Rated 94/100. -
Laurent Fayolle Crozes-Hermitage Les Pontaix 2022
This wine has a savory structure supporting the red berry fruit, with potential for aging. Rated 95/100. -
Laurent Fayolle Crozes-Hermitage Clos les Cornirets 2022
Offers a concentrated palate with high acidity and firm tannins, exhibiting tightwound red fruit and complex notes. Rated 95/100. -
Laurent Fayolle Crozes-Hermitage Clos les Cornirets 2019
A warm vintage characterized by sweet fruit and substantial structure. Rated 95/100.