Côte-Rôtie

The Côte-Rôtie appellation now covers three communes on the right bank of the Rhône: Saint-Cyr-sur-Rhône, Ampuis, and Tupin-Semons, in the Rhône department. The Côte-Rôtie terroir consists of very steep granite terraces covered with a layer of silica-limestone in the Côte Blonde and clay and iron oxide in the Côte Brune. The climate is moderate continental, dry and hot in summer, with regular rainfall in the other seasons. 

The area under production for Côte-Rôtie wines is approximately 230 hectares, with an annual production of around 8,500 hectoliters of red wine. Côte-Rôtie wine is made from at least 80% Syrah, with a maximum of 20% Viognier permitted. The wine is aged in oak barrels for a minimum of 18 months to 3 years. This excellent Côte-Rôtie appellation is perfectly showcased by producers such as E. Guigal, Domaine Georges Vernay, M. Chapoutier, and the wines offered by Domaine Barge. 

A controlled designation of origin since 1936, Côte-Rôtie stands out among the grands crus of the Rhône Valley. A wine-growing region celebrated since ancient times, wines from Côte-Rôtie were served at the tables of European monarchies.

Côte-Rôtie red wine: climate and soil

The vineyards in this northern part of the Rhône Valley enjoy a south-facing exposure. The Mediterranean climate, marked by continental influences, promises hot summers, plenty of sunshine, and regular rainfall. The chayets, stony granite terraces on which the vineyards grow, are made of mica schist, leucogneiss, or migmatite. These three metamorphic rocks crumble into rubble and sand. They thus retain water in their cracks and rough surfaces. This soil, ideal for vines, is characterized by its high acidity, quartz derivatives, and ferruginous alterations.

Côte-Rôtie: a terroir and grape varieties

The AOC currently includes vineyards in three municipalities in the valley of the Rhône : Ampuis, Saint-Cyr-sur-le-Rhône, and Tupin-et-Semons. 133 centuries-old localities dot this iconic wine-growing region. The Côte Blonde, Côte Brune, Grandes Places, and Rochins are among the most famous. The region's growers plant a minimum of 80% Syrah and Viognier B. The two grape varieties co-ferment, producing the Côte-Rôtie red wine. Today, 60 estates adhere to this characteristic blend of grape varieties for the AOC. They bottle nearly 8,500 hectoliters each year from 230 hectares.

Côte-Rôtie wine: unique aging and aromas

The big ones Côte-Rôtie vineyards age their wines traditionally in oak barrels for at least 18 months. However, their wines improve particularly well in the cellar. Long aging, lasting several decades, refines the tannins, giving them finesse and delicacy. 

With age, the deep ruby color, dotted with tears, of the Côte-Rôtie red wine tends toward brick red. The AOC benefits from characteristic meaty aromas, reminiscent of smoked bacon and leather. As it ages, its red and black fruit notes become more refined. They reveal vanilla aromas, enhanced by violet and woody notes. This rich wine, which lingers on the palate, is also distinguished by roasted aromas, reminiscent of tobacco and chocolate.

Côte-Rôtie: an appellation and prices

TheCôte-Rôtie AOC has many distinctive characteristics. Depending on the region, the specific vineyard location, and the vintage, the flavors vary, gaining in power, delicacy, or length on the palate. The tannic elegance of exceptional years and renowned localities makes the best bottles highly sought after internationally. As a result, prices can vary by up to threefold. However, for French connoisseurs, these grands crus remain affordable.

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