Equis is the label of Maxime Graillot and Thomas Schmittel, two young producers working in the Northern Rhône with a clear eye for what makes Crozes-Hermitage compelling at its best. Maxime is the son of Alain Graillot, one of the appellation's defining figures, and the family connection runs deep, both in knowledge and in the network of growers they work with.

The Equinoxe cuvée is sourced primarily from a mature, gravelly, organically farmed site in Pont-de-l'Isère, owned and managed by a close friend and neighbour of the Graillot family. The fully destemmed grapes fermented in concrete tanks and large wooden tronconique vats, with a degree of carbonic maceration, and matured for nine months in the same vessels. A short nine-day maceration keeps the wine fresh and approachable.

Gorgeously fleshy and fruit-forward, with brightly flowing flavours of hedgerow fruits and red-cherry tang, matched by nuances of wispy smoke and a snappy, refreshing structure. Nicolas Greinacher at Vinous noted subtle orange blossom, violets and earthy shadings, with gentle tannins and a palate that can be enjoyed right away. 89 points, Vinous.