 
This property was founded in 1861 in Mercurol/Tain l'Hermitage, and developed in 1961 by Robert and Yvette Michelas into what is now a 125 acre series of vineyards reaching into the four major appellations of the region, Saint Joseph, Cornas, Crozes-Hersmitage and Hermitage. In 1988, the "torch" was passed along to the next generation, Sylvie, Corine, Florence and Sébastien, who describe their domaine as a family affair above all, with deep roots in the Drôme and the Ardèche. The vineyards are worked with respect for the environment, with reduced yields to enhance quality and concentration.
The Crozes-Hermitage "La Chasselière" is produced from a 25 acre parcel planted in a stony, clay-limestone soil, planted entirely to Syrah. The vines are typically 30+ years old, with a yield of 35-40 hectoliters per hectare (~1500 liters/acre), which produces a very aromatic wine, rich in red fruits with both smoky and spicy notes. The must is macerated at cool temperatures for 15-18 days to extract the maximum of aromas, followed by fermentation around 80F to extract the color. After pressing, the wine is raised in a combination of old barrels and casks to aid in the maturation of the wine, without adding oaky flavors.
This deeply colored wine is very fragrant with a nose of spicy red fruit that follows through on the palate. Round and savory, the tannins are supple yet still providing a nice structure to the wine. The finish is long and rich and beckons you back for more. La Chasselière pairs well with fowl and grilled meats, yet can pair great with a burger, so no matter what is the plat du jour, if you want an affordable Syrah wine, this is a great choice.
  
Ron & Robert Michelas Florence and Ron in the Crozes-Hermitage
in the Crozes-Hermitage barrel ageing cellar hillside vineyard
vineyards
michelas-st-jemms.fr
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