Côte Rôtie
The impressively precipitous vineyards of Côte Rôtie, that dwarf the village of Ampuis on the left bank of the river Rhône just below Vienne, mark the gateway to the Rhône valley as far as wine lovers are concerned. Only two grapes are permitted in Côte Rôtie, firstly, and by far the most significant, Syrah (confusingly called Sérine in the local patois) and secondly Viognier, which may form up to 20% of the finished wine under appellation rules. At La Viallière Joel Champet, yields a traditional Côte Rôtie, dark in colour and without any discernable oak influence. Patrick Jasmin’s finished wine is deep and luscious with a richness and purity of fruit that puts one in mind of high end Burgundy.
Red