Côte-Rôtie, behind the 100 points

Mythic vineyards, prestigious wine

2000 years ago,  Romans and Greeks already sang the praises of Côte-Rôtie wines, known at that time as “wine of Vienne”.  The first written documents mentioning“Côte-Rôtie” dates from the 6th century !

The steepest hillside vineyards in Europe

Located at the very north of the Rhône Valley, the Côte-Rôtie vineyards are unique steep slopes, of nearly 60° incline facing the river and separated by stone walls. In English "the roasted slope" , these slopes receive long hours of sunlight.

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The most famous appellation of the Rhone Valley

Côte-Rôtie is the only red cru in the Northern Côtes du Rhône to plant Viognier (up to 20%) alongside the Syrah and has been one of the most famous appellations of the Rhone Valley along with Hermitage and Chateauneuf-du-Pape.

Côte blonde

At the south of the appellation, the Côte blonde is a hillside covered with lighter-colored sandy soils and a limestone base. The wines from the Côte Blonde (immediately west of Ampuis) are lighter, fruitier, more sumptuous and approachable at an earlier age.

2012  La Mouline from E. Guigal is the third most highly rated Cote Rotie wine.

Its indicative blend is 89% Syrah and 11% Viognier. The 2012 vintage was given a score of 97 by The Wine Advocate.

Côte brune

At the north of the appellation, the Côte brune offers a complex terroir made up of Schist and iron oxide which transmit finesse and strength to the wine.

« La Turque » is one of the most vibrant expression of the Cote Brune and is regularly acclaimed by critics.

Robert Parker rated 100 points the 2009 Vintage from E. Guigal Cote Rotie La Turque. Its blend of 93% Syrah and 7% Viognier is aged in 100% new, French oak barrels for up to 42 months.

Best Vintages

The best vintages of Côte-Rôtie are: 2015, 2012, 2010, 2009, 2007, 2005, 2003, 2001, 1999, 1998, 1995, 1991, 1990, 1989, 1988, 1985, 1983, 1982, 1978 and 1961.