We aim to have all wines be vintage specific. In the case the listed vintage is out of stock and you note you would like that particular vintage, we will inform you via email for approval to go ahead.
Situated on the northernmost tip of the Rhône Valley, Cote Rotie, which translates to "roasted slope", gets its name from the intense sunlight that bathes its terraced vineyards. This region has been cherished for centuries, with its viticultural roots potentially tracing back to Roman times. The steep slopes overlooking the river provide an optimal environment for grapevines, ensuring they receive ample sunlight and excellent drainage.
The predominant grape here is Syrah, which brings forth dark fruits, peppery notes, and sometimes even olives and bacon fat. Uniquely, Cote Rotie allows for the co-fermentation of Syrah with the white grape, Viognier. This practice, although employed sparingly, imparts the wine with added aromatic intensity and a touch of floral elegance.
The wines of Cote Rotie are lauded for their ability to age gracefully. Over time, they evolve, developing intricate layers of aroma and flavor, making each bottle a testament to the region's exceptional winemaking legacy.
Cote Rotie wine is a distinguished red wine that hails from the northernmost tip of the Rhône Valley in France. The name "Cote Rotie" translates to "roasted slope," aptly named for the region's sun-drenched vineyards that gracefully line its steep granite terraces. Traditionally, Cote Rotie is dominated by the Syrah grape, often co-fermented with a touch of Viognier, a white grape, to enhance its aromatic appeal. This wine is celebrated for its deep ruby color, strong aromatics, and layers of flavors ranging from red berries to dark spices and smoked meats.
Within the Cote Rotie appellation, several wines have garnered international acclaim. Known for their robust character and incredible aging potential, wines from esteemed producers such as Guigal's La Mouline, La Turque, and La Landonne have become iconic. Another notable mention is the Domaine Jamet, which consistently delivers purity of fruit and terroir expression. These wines, among others from the region, have set benchmarks in the global wine community for their elegance, complexity, and depth.
While Cote Rotie is primarily associated with red wines, there's a subtle diversity within this classification. The region is divided into two main areas: the Cote Brune and the Cote Blonde. Wines from Cote Brune are known for their richer, more tannic character due to the iron-rich soils, whereas those from Cote Blonde possess a lighter, more aromatic profile. The use or exclusion of the Viognier grape can also lead to varied profiles; wines with Viognier often have floral notes and an added elegance.
Certain producers have consistently received high accolades. Guigal's single-vineyard selections are often at the top, with their remarkable depth and longevity. Domaine Jamet, Domaine Rostaing, and Domaine Clusel Roch are other revered names, producing wines with impeccable balance and a true reflection of the Cote Rotie terroir. Seek out vintages known for their favorable growing conditions, such as 2010, 2015, and 2019, for some of the region's most stellar expressions.
The intense flavors and aromatic depth of Cote Rotie wines make them ideal companions for a range of dishes. Classic pairings include lamb, especially when roasted or grilled, as the gamey flavors resonate with the wine's smoky undertones. Duck breast with a berry reduction, hearty beef stews, and dishes infused with herbs like rosemary and thyme beautifully complement the wine's dark fruit and spicy nuances. Additionally, aged cheeses like Comté or Gruyère can be an exquisite match, enhancing the wine's inherent complexities.
France
Italy
Spain
Australia
New-Zealand
Germany
Austria
Portugal
South-Africa
Greece
USA