From the northern reaches of Cte-Rtie, Champon is one of Clusel-Rochs most delicate and high-toned lieux-dits. The family has long championed organic farming and traditional methodswhole-cluster fermentation, minimal extraction, and aging in mostly older barrels. In the cooler, classic 2021 vintage, the results are especially vivid and pure.

The wine opens with a breeze of violet, black raspberry, cracked pepper, and olive tapenade. On the palate, its sleek and savorymedium-bodied with lifted acidity, fine tannins, and a long, stony finish. Theres an almost Pinot-like grace to the structure, but the aromatics are unmistakably Northern Rhne Syrah.

Drink now with a decant or cellar for a decade. Perfect with roast duck, charred eggplant, or lentils with rosemary. Champon 2021 is Cte-Rtie in a quieter registerrefined, transparent, and full of soul.