Cuilleron Côte-Rôtie Bassenon
WHY WE LOVE IT
- Grown on 1.5 ha of south-facing terraced vines on Coteau de Semons, in Tupin-Semons commune. “Bassenon” is not the district but the stream at the foot of the hill.
- The soil of granite and gneiss is typical in the south of this AOC area.
- Organic, Eco-friendly farming. No insecticides are used
Varietal Composition: 90% Syrah, 10% Viognier
Elaboration: The vines are planted in high-density (8,000-10,000 vines per hectare). No insecticides and few treatments are applied (depending on weather). A small amount of organic-only fertilizer may be used with respect to soil and vine balance. Precise control of vigor and yields is maintained through leaf stripping and green harvesting for better grape maturation.
The grapes are picked by hand then sorted, crushed and partially destemmed in the cellar. Open, temperature-controlled vatting occurs for about three weeks with regular cap-punching and pumping-over. Malolactic-fermentation is in barriques with native yeasts. Maturation takes18 months in barriques.
This wine is best drunk for the primary aromas during the first five years, or for the secondary aromas up to 10 years and more.
Tasting Notes: an elegant bouquet that mixes Syrah’s red berry fruits with Viognier’s floral character (violets). Elegant, fresh and airy on the palate. Subtle yet prominent tannins.
PRESS
2019 – 94 Vinous
2020 – 95 Vinous
PRODUCER BACKGROUND
Cuilleron Estates is a producer in the northern Rhône. The estate has been in the Cuilleron family for three generations, but it is the estate’s current owner and winemaker, Yves Cuilleron, who has expanded the size, scope, and scale of the vineyard, land holdings, and winery.