Domaine Combier

Domaine Combier – Family tradition and passion for the terroir in the Rhône Valley

Domain name

Domaine Combier

Wine region

Northern Rhône Valley

Appellations and terroirs

The estate is located in the heart of the Crozes-Hermitage appellation, which accounts for the majority of its production, with 25 hectares. The diversity of the soils is remarkable: to the north, in the communes of Gervans and Serves-sur-Rhône, Syrah grows on outcropping bedrock and highly permeable granite soils, while to the south, on the Châssis plateau, clay-limestone soils covered with rolled pebbles bring richness and typicity to the wines. This diversity allows for the creation of subtle blends, balancing power and freshness. The emblematic plot, Clos des Grives, covers 9 hectares, with vines over 70 years old, renowned worldwide for their exceptional expression. Since 1990, the estate has also expanded to include 1 hectare in Saint-Joseph, on granite terroirs ideal for hillside Syrah, thus broadening the range and typicity of the wines produced.

Iconic grape varieties

Syrah for the red wines, Marsanne and Roussanne for the whites. Syrah, the main grape variety, is cultivated with great respect for its natural expression, promoting fine tannins and a complex aromatic profile. The whites made from Marsanne and Roussanne bring roundness and elegance to the blends.

Philosophy and History

The Rhône Valley roots of Domaine Combier date back to 1936, when Camille Combier, originally from the Ardèche region, purchased a property in La Roche de Glun. Since then, four generations have passed down a know-how that respects the terroir and the environment. Maurice Combier was a pioneer of organic farming as early as 1970, a visionary commitment at the height of the chemical revolution, which still profoundly influences the estate's practices. His son Laurent, a recent graduate, built the winery in the 1990s and steered production towards a quest for elegance and finesse, exemplified by the prestigious Clos des Grives. Today, the next generation is in charge, with David and Julien bringing dynamism and modernity while respecting the family heritage and time-honored winemaking traditions.

Production specifics

The estate practices rigorous hand-harvesting, followed by vinification without artifice or excessive extraction, in order to preserve the freshness and natural expression of the fruit. The equipment is modern: temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks, concrete eggs, concrete vats, and a wide range of wooden containers (barrels, demi-muids). The work on each plot is constantly refined thanks to a cellar expanded in 2017 to improve the precision of each cuvée. The aim is to transmit the finesse and elegance of Burgundian Pinot Noir to Rhône Syrah, with wines that are joyful, charming, precise, and honest. Fermentation is long and controlled, and aging is carefully monitored, in accordance with the specific characteristics of each terroir and vintage, for a perfect balance between power and delicacy.

Environmental commitment

A pioneer in organic viticulture, Domaine Combier continues its efforts towards sustainable agriculture that respects the soil, climate, and biodiversity. All plantings are done using massal selection, preserving the typicity and diversity of the grape varieties. Vineyard work is adapted to the natural rhythm of the soil and plants, with particular attention to the lunar calendar and the health of the vineyard. Manual and reasoned work is paramount, and the use of organic treatments is systematic. The goal is to respect nature to produce high-quality, healthy, and expressive grapes, while preserving biodiversity and soil richness over the long term.

Recognitions

Clos des Grives is recognized as an emblematic wine of Crozes-Hermitage and enjoys an international reputation for its finesse, depth, and aging potential. The estate is praised for its exceptional work and exemplary practices in organic farming and respect for the terroir. The estate's wines are regularly lauded by the specialized press and awarded in prestigious guides.

Domaine Combier embodies the alliance between family tradition and constant innovation, offering powerful, elegant wines that are true to their terroir of origin.

Why choose a wine from Domaine Combier?

• A rich and deeply rooted family history dating back to 1936
• An early and consistent commitment to organic viticulture
• A mosaic of unique terroirs in Crozes-Hermitage and Saint-Joseph
• A precise and specialized expertise that highlights the finesse of the fruit
• Wines recognized worldwide for their elegance and depth

Discover the selection of wines from Domaine Combier and let yourself be seduced by their pure and refined expression of the Rhône terroirs.