Côte-Rôtie wines – powerful and elegant reds from the Rhône

Côte-Rôtie: the elegance and power of the great red wines of the Rhône

The Côte-Rôtie appellation, located on the right bank of the Rhône, is one of the most prestigious and oldest in the Rhône Valley. Renowned for its exceptional red wines, this region is a true viticultural gem, offering powerful, elegant wines of great aromatic complexity. The main grape variety is Syrah , often complemented by a small proportion of Viognier , a white grape variety that brings finesse and complexity to the blend.

A unique terroir and demanding viticulture

The Côte-Rôtie vineyards cover approximately 300 hectares of steep, often very steep, south-facing slopes, on granite soils mixed with schist and gneiss. These challenging conditions demand meticulous work in the vineyard, with limited yields that promote the concentration of aromas and the quality of the grapes. Winegrowers often practice manual viticulture, respectful of the environment, to preserve the expression of the terroir.

The unique role of Viognier in the blend

A unique characteristic of Côte-Rôtie is that the white grape variety Viognier can be blended with Syrah up to 20%. This rare practice in red wines brings exceptional aromatic complexity, with floral notes and a silky texture, while balancing the tannic power of the Syrah. This combination gives Côte-Rôtie wines a unique elegance and finesse.

Organoleptic characteristics of Côte-Rôtie wines

Côte-Rôtie red wines are distinguished by their deep color, often ruby ​​to garnet, and their complex nose with intense aromas of black fruit (blackberry, blackcurrant), spices (pepper, licorice), violet, and sometimes smoky or animal notes. On the palate, they offer a firm yet silky tannic structure, beautiful acidity, and a long finish, attesting to their remarkable aging potential, which can extend over several decades.

Food and wine pairings with Côte-Rôtie

These powerful and refined wines perfectly complement grilled or sauced red meats, game, rich stews, and aged cheeses. They are also an excellent choice for gourmet meals where the complexity and finesse of the wines will be highlighted.

Our selection of Côte-Rôtie

At Les Vins de Carole, we offer a carefully curated selection of Côte-Rôtie wines, sourced from passionate estates committed to preserving the terroir and achieving exceptional quality. Our collection reflects the richness, diversity, and nobility of this outstanding appellation, offering you unique and memorable tasting experiences.