Côte-Rôtie
Côte-Rôtie is a historic Rhône Valley appellation, recognised since 1940. It is the most northerly Rhône appellation, situated 30km south of Lyon. It produces exclusively red wines, made from at least 80% Syrah, and – more rarely – from Viognier, for a maximum of 20% of the blend.
The hills of Côte-Rôtie appeared 300 million years ago and are made up of metamorphic rock. The appellation is known for its steep vineyards, with slopes of up to 60 degrees, at altitudes ranging from 180 to 320 metres. In light of these conditions, vineyards are farmed by hand for the most part. This terroir is ideally suited to the development and full expression of the authorised grape varieties, and the wines are renowned for their ageing potential, and complex tannic structure. Aromas range from black fruit to animal, spices and undergrowth.
The appellation may be small in size, covering 330 hectares with 90 winegrowers, but it has a great reputation, both among French wine lovers and those around the world. Several prestigious names have contributed to the AOC’s reputation. One such is Guigal, with its LaLaLa collection (including La Landonne, La Mouline and La Turque, and more recently La Reynarde). Other legendary Côte-Rôtie producers are Jean-Michel Gerin, Stéphane Ogier, Jamet, Clusel-Roch, Chapoutier, Yves Cuilleron, René Rostaing and Bénetière.
