The Northern Rhône has a continental climate with harsh winters but warm summers. Its climate is influenced by the mistral wind, which brings colder air from the Massif Central. Consequently, the Northern Rhône is somewhat cooler than the Southern Rhône, which means that the mix of planted grape varieties and wine styles are slightly different.
The wines of the Northern Rhône are dominated by the ink-black Syrah grape and it is the only red grape variety permitted in red AOC wines from the northern Rhône. For wines bearing the Cornas AOC designation, Syrah must be used exclusively, whereas other red wines from the northern Rhône sub-region may be blended with white wine grapes, these generally are either Viognier, or Marsanne and Roussanne, depending on the appellation. However, while this is allowed by the AOC rules, blending with white grapes is only widely practiced in the production of Côte-Rôtie. The Viognier grape by itself is used for white wines from Condrieu and Château-Grillet. Marsanne and Roussanne are in turn used for the whites from Crozes-Hermitage, Hermitage, Saint-Joseph, and Saint-Péray. Northern Rhône reds are often identified by their signature aromas of green olive and smoky bacon.
At Hic! Wine Merchants, we invite you to explore the diverse brilliance of this narrow, steep valley through our four specialized collections. For those seeking fresh, juicy, and accessible everyday Northern Syrah, our primary engine room can be uncovered in Crozes-Hermitage. If you are looking to explore elegant, stony reds and crisp, mineral-driven whites that offer exceptional independent value, look no further than our Saint-Joseph range. For special occasions and cellar collectors, The Northern Icons tier showcases the absolute peak of red wine luxury, contrasting the fragrant elegance of Côte-Rôtie, the pure muscular power of Cornas, and the historic majesty of Hermitage. Finally, white wine lovers can head straight to our dedicated Northern Rhône Whites destination, featuring luxurious, aromatic Viognier alongside beautifully textured Marsanne and Roussanne blends that pair effortlessly with fine food.
