Côte-Rôtie AOC

TheAOC Côte-Rôtie is one of the most prestigious and fascinating appellations of Northern Rhône Valley in France. Known for its elegant and powerful red wines made mainly from the grape variety Syrah, sometimes enriched by a small percentage of Viognier, Côte-Rôtie embodies the perfect harmony between power, refinement e longevity.

History and Origin of the Appellation

The winemaking history of the Côte-Rôtie has very ancient origins, dating back to Roman times. The name "Côte-Rôtie" means "a sun-baked hill", referring to the sunny, steep aspect of the vineyards overlooking the river Rhône. Over the centuries, the Cistercian monks and local families refined their growing and winemaking techniques, bringing the area worldwide fame. TheAOC Côte-Rôtie was officially recognised in 1940, strengthening the prestige of this terroir. Production Area The appellation extends only over the steep slopes surrounding the commune of Ampuis, as well as the municipalities of Saint-Cyr-sur-le-Rhône e Tupin-et-Semons, on the right bank of the river Rhône. Extent The planted area covers about 320 hectares. The vineyards grow on slopes reaching up to 60%, requiring all vineyard work to be done by hand. Sectors of the Côte-Rôtie The appellation is divided into two main zones: Côte Blonde: Lighter, sandier soils, ideal for wines that are more fragrant e elegant. Côte Brune: Soils richer in clay e iron, which produce wines that are more robust e structured. Climate Continental with influences Mediterranean. Hot summers e cold winters. The wind Mistral protects the vineyards from disease and damp. Soil Granite, mica schist e iron-rich clay. The lighter soils of the Côte Blonde favour elegance, while the heavier ones of the Côte Brune give structure. Grape Varieties and Composition of the Wines Black Grape Variety Syrah: It is the main grape variety and can be used up to 100%. It gives rise to intense, long-lived, complex wines. White Grape Variety Viognier: It may be present up to a maximum of 20%. Adds floral aromas, softness and refinement to the wines. Style of Côte-Rôtie AOC Wines Colour Intense ruby red, which over time develops towards shades of garnet. Aromas Black fruits: blackberry, blackcurrant, plum. Floral notes: violet, iris (thanks to the Viognier). Spices: black pepper, liquorice. Smoky notes, of leather and of smoked meat. Palate Structured e enveloping, with tannins fine e well integrated. Balanced acidity, which gives freshness and longevity. A long finish e lingering, with returning spicy and fruity notes. Potential for ageing: The best can evolve for 20-30 years. Winemaking Techniques Winemaking in Côte-Rôtie combines tradition and innovation to bring out the region's unique terroir. Traditional fermentation with indigenous yeasts. Extended maceration of 2-3 weeks to extract colour and tannins. Gentle pump-overs and punch-downs to preserve finesse and elegance. Ageing in French oak barriques for 18-24 months, with a variable percentage of new wood. In some cases they use whole-bunch fermentation to add freshness and complexity. Premier Cru and Lieux-Dits of Côte-Rôtie Although the appellation has no official classification of Premier Cru, there are some particularly renowned vineyards, known as lieux-dits. The most famous lieux-dits: La Landonne: Powerful, structured wines. La Mouline: Elegance and aromatic finesse. Côte Blonde: More fragrant, softer wines. Côte Brune: More tannic, longer-lived wines. Food Pairings The wines of the Côte-Rôtie go perfectly with rich, flavoursome dishes. Red meat grilled and braised. Game and roasts. Spicy dishes and stews. Aged cheeses. Mushroom-based dishes e truffle. Why Choose an AOC Côte-Rôtie Wine? Choosing a wine from theAOC Côte-Rôtie means opting for a tasting experience of excellence, in which come together power, refinement e longevity. The wines of this appellation are perfect for anyone looking for something that tells the story of its own place with depth e character, offering unique emotions with every sip.