Pierre Gaillard Cote Rotie 2022

This wine hails from the Côte-Rôtie AOC in the northern Rhône Valley, known for its steep, terraced vineyards and complex, age-worthy wines. The vineyards are situated on South and South-East facing slopes in Ampuis, Tupin, and Semons. The terroir is divided into two main soil types: the Côte Brune features schist rich in iron oxide, imparting structure and power, while the Côte Blonde, composed of gneiss and sandy clay, lends finesse and elegance. These characteristics produce wines that balance power with delicacy​.

The wine is crafted from a blend of 90% Syrah and 10% Viognier, typical of Côte-Rôtie. This traditional co-fermentation of Syrah with Viognier enhances the wine's aromatic complexity and softens its structure. The resulting style is expressive, with a balance of fruit, spice, and floral notes, underpinned by fine tannins.

The grapes are hand-harvested at full ripeness, with sorting conducted in the vineyard as necessary. The vinification process begins with full destemming and includes a cold maceration before fermentation, which occurs at a controlled temperature of 30°C. A post-fermentation maceration follows, ensuring a gentle extraction of tannins. The wine undergoes malolactic fermentation in barrels and is aged for 18 months in French oak barrels, 30% of which are new.

Pierre Gaillard Côte-Rôtie 2022 offers a delicate and expressive bouquet of cassis, violets, and black pepper, underscored by a hint of spice. On the palate, the wine is both subtle and intense, with silky tannins and a long, harmonious finish.

This wine pairs beautifully with game dishes, such as pheasant in truffle sauce, or earthy preparations like a wild mushroom casserole with black pepper. It also complements grilled lamb chops or duck confit.