Lot presentation

Côte-Rôtie Bassenon Yves Cuilleron (Domaine) 1999

The wine

Bassenon takes its name from the creek located at the bottom of the Semons hillside (in the commune of Tupin-Semons) where the Syrah and Viognier grapes which comprise this cuvée are cultivated. The two varieties are both cultivated by hand in an environmentally friendly way in soils typical of the AOC, consisting of granite and gneiss. The grapes are harvested by hand and, upon arrival in the cellar, are sorted, crushed and partially destemmed. They are vatted for 3 weeks in thermoregulated open vats with regular punch-downs and pump-overs. They then complete their alcoholic and malolactic fermentations in barrique barrels with native yeasts. The wine is matured for 18 months in barrique barrels. This Côte-Rôtie can be enjoyed while young, or after ten years for a fuller appreciation of its secondary aromas. It is a neat, direct wine with seductive notes of red and black berries. On the palate, it delivers a sweet, fresh texture with a beautiful tannic structure.

About the Producer Yves Cuilleron

Yves Cuilleron likes good food and fine wine, and makes no secret of this. Viticulture has been in his blood for three generations so it was only natural for him to take over the family vineyard in 1987. His grandfather, Claude Cuilleron, planted the plot in 1920 and began bottling his own wine in 1947. Yves initially favoured a mechanised approach but his love of good wine led him back to a more traditional approach. He does not hold any certifications but his vineyards are tended meticulously with the goal of producing the best possible grapes. All the work is carried out by hand and chemical additives are prohibited. In the winery, vinification is traditional. Yves Cuilleron strives for overall harmony in his wines which are known for their elegant expression and finesse.