Maxime Graillot

Son of renowned Crozes-Hermitage producer Alain Graillot, Maxime Graillot, 29, bottled his first vintage in 2004. Graillot has put together an estate of 12 acres of vines in Crozes-Hermitage, spread over four different parcels, which he vinifies and élevages separately before making the final blend.

Starting their respective domaines on their own and showing attention to detail in the vineyard is what the father and son have in common. But Maxime soon separates himself from his father's techniques and wine style.
Alain is known for his use of traditional vinification for his Crozes-Hermitage, Maxime on the other hand, takes a more modern approach. While the father's wine is known for its prominent backbone, minerality and ageability, the younger Graillot's Crozes-Hermitage Domaine des Lises is pure and driven, with fresh crushed red and dark berry fruit and licorice notes. It has the minerality of Crozes, with a plusher feel than his father's wine.
Maxime is finding his way in the wine business, but his wines are already impressive. And if there were ever an argument for traditional and modern wine techniques and styles being able to co-exist, one need look no further than under the roof at chez Graillot.  JAMES MOLESWORTH, Wine Spectator