The Brézème Vieille Serine 2016 by Èric Texier is a distinctive expression of Northern Rhône Syrah, produced from one of the region's rarest genetic selections. The wine comes from the historic Brézème vineyard in the Drôme, a forgotten Rhône terroir brought back into the spotlight through the dedication of Èric Texier. A former nuclear engineer, Texier left his previous career to pursue winemaking, embracing organic viticulture and traditional cellar practices focused on expressing place rather than technique.
This cuvée is made exclusively from over seventy-year-old vines of the local Serine clone, considered one of the oldest surviving forms of Syrah. The vineyard sits on south-facing limestone marl and clay slopes, where cool northern winds preserve freshness while ensuring slow, balanced ripening.
The estate has been farmed under certified organic principles since its foundation, with agroecological practices and manual vineyard work. In the cellar, the grapes undergo whole-cluster spontaneous fermentation with indigenous yeasts, followed by a short maceration in concrete tanks. After fermentation, the wine matures in 500-litre oak barrels for around eighteen months before bottling without fining or filtration, preserving its natural texture and complexity.
The wine shows a deep ruby colour with an expressive bouquet of blackberries, cassis, white pepper and sweet spices, layered with hints of dark chocolate and Mediterranean herbs. On the palate it is structured yet graceful, offering silky tannins, vibrant acidity and remarkable balance between richness and freshness. The finish is long, savoury and finely mineral, reflecting the singular identity of Brézème.
The Brézème Vieille Serine 2016 pairs beautifully with roast lamb, beef roasts, venison, braised game, mushroom dishes, slow-cooked stews and aged cheeses. Serve at 16–18°C, preferably after some aeration. A rare old-vine organic Syrah that faithfully captures the heritage and elegance of one of the Rhône Valley's most distinctive terroirs.


