Côte-Rôtie Lieu-Dit « Bonnivières » 2021

In the centre of the Côte-Rôtie appellation, in the municipality of Ampuis, stands the locality of “Bonnivières”, a handsome east-facing hillside of mica schist. The “Terres Sombres” cuvée was made chiefly with wines from this locality.

Soils

schists typical of the north of this AOC area.

Grapes Variety

syrah

Viticulture 

high-density planting (8,000-10,000 vines per hectare). No insecticides or pesticides, few treatments (depending on weather), small amount of organic-only fertiliser, with respect of soil and vine balance. Vigour and yield control, leaf-thinning and green harvesting to promote grape maturation.

Vinification

the grapes are hand-picked; and then sorted, crushed and partially destemmed in the cellar. Fermented with native yeasts in open, temperature-controlled vats for about 3 weeks, with regular cap-punching and pumping-over. Malolactic-fermented in barriques.

Maturing

18 months in barriques.

tasting notes

a complex, profound wine with a nose of dark fruits, spice, tobacco, and a faint roasted edge. Clean and pure on the palate, revealing a rich rounded style. Long, powerful finish. Silky tannins.

Ageing

wine vinified for laying down; slightly hard when young. Preferable to wait 4-5 years, but it can age 15 years or more.

Pairing

game or other strong meat (e.g. pavé of beef in a mustard-grain crust)