Presentation
Located in the northern Rhône Valley, Domaine Martinelli stands out within the Crozes-Hermitage appellation. Its terroir, ideal for Syrah and Marsanne, yields wines that are both elegant and expressive. The red wines reveal notes of black fruit, licorice, and spice, while the whites—particularly the “Poésy” cuvée—are marked by floral freshness and stone fruit aromas. Though little is known about the estate’s origins, its name and regional roots suggest a family-run structure grounded in tradition. Modest in size, the domaine reflects the artisanal spirit of Crozes-Hermitage, where sustainable viticulture is commonly practiced. Without official details regarding its founding year, vineyard area, or cultivation methods, Domaine Martinelli remains somewhat discreet. Yet its wines convey true expertise and an authentic interpretation of the Rhône terroir.
Location
Geographical location: within the Crozes-Hermitage appellation, in the northern Rhône Valley.
Terroir
Soil: classic AOC terroir composed of rolled pebbles on granitic slopes, offering optimal drainage.
Climate: continental with marked temperature variations, enhancing the aromatic ripeness of the Syrah grape.
In the vineyard
Viticulture: sustainable practices, tailored pruning, canopy management and controlled grass cover to preserve grape quality.
Harvest
Manual harvesting with sorting table to select the finest grapes.
Winemaking
Vinification: traditional maceration in temperature-controlled stainless steel or concrete vats for 2 to 3 weeks, depending on ripeness.
Extraction: precise pump-overs and cap punching to extract fine tannins and elegant aromas.
Malolactic fermentation: in vat, ensuring roundness and suppleness on the palate.
Ageing
Ageing: 6 to 8 months in stainless steel vats, with 30% of the volume aged in demi-muids to add roundness and complexity.
Varietal
Syrah : 100%
Specifications
Alcohol content : 13 % vol.
Contains sulphites. Does not contain egg or egg products. Does not contain milk or milk-based products.
Ingredients & nutrition ›
Serving
Serving temperature: 16 to 18°C
Ageing potential
3 to 5 years
Tasting
Colour: medium red, clear and bright, typical of young vines.
Nose: expressive, with aromas of small black fruits (blueberry, blackberry) combined with spicy notes (white pepper, liquorice) and a discreet floral touch (violet).
Palate: smooth attack, fine and silky tannins, generous fruit mid-palate. Pleasant finish, well-balanced between tangy freshness and spice, with moderate aromatic persistence.
Food pairings
This "Reflets de France" cuvée will pair elegantly with:
Grilled duck breast with mild spices or pan-seared beef fillet with a rich jus.
Saucy dishes such as root vegetable curry, Provençal daube, or caramelised eggplant tart.
Cheeses: Tomme de Savoie, soft blue cheese or young Comté.
