Domaine Clusel-Roch Cote Rotie Cuvee Vialliere, Rhone, France 2021

The first time you set your eyes on the hills of Côte Rôtie, it is impossible not be overwhelmed with their beauty. The cliff-like granite hillsides seem to have burst from the Earth with vigor and violence. Only the truly dedicated would decide to make their living there. No tractor on Earth can plow these vineyards – everything has to be painstakingly done by hand. This is the place that Domaine Clusel-Roch calls home.

Based in Verenay, the northernmost village in Côte Rôtie, this tiny 3.5 hectare domaine is run by Gilbert Clusel, his wife Brigit, and their son Guillaume. Gilbert’s grandfather planted the foundation of the winery in 1935, the vineyard now known as ‘Les Grandes-Places’, using a low yielding clone of Syrah called Serine. All subsequent plantings have been selection massale from that vineyard, a rarity in the region as higher yielding material became more prevalent. The Clusel family was also early believers in the advantages of organic farming, and would become pioneers of the movement within the region as they converted fully in 1990.

The Clusel Roch Côte-Rôtie Vialliere 2021 is a riveting expression of the terroir in Northern Rhône. Crafted by the renowned Clusel-Roch family, revered for their organic and biodynamic principles, they've lovingly nurtured this Syrah on the steep, terraced slopes of Côte-Rôtie. The soil composition of migmatite, detrital mica and schist lends a distinct character to this wine. The result is beautiful aromas of black fruits, spices and elegant floral undertones, leading onto a palate that boasts silky tannins and a lovely freshness. A testament to the expertise and artisanal approach of the Clusel-Roch family.