Domaine Christophe Billon Côte Rozier Côte Rotie 2019

Domaine Christophe Billon Côte Rozier Côte Rotie 2019

WINERY: Domaine Christophe Billon

WINEMAKER: Christophe Billon

ESTABLISHED: 1991

REGION: FRANCE • Rhône Valley • Ampuis

APPELLATION: Côte-Rôtie AOC

BLEND: 100% Syrah

VINEYARDS: The vineyard ‘Côte Rozier’ sits north of the village of Ampuis, on the same, east-facing flank of hillside as ‘La Landonne.’ Steeply graded, the plot’s soils are mostly schist, with some mica pieces; classic ‘Brune’
terroir. The family farms three small parcels within ‘Rozier,’ one of which was planted in 1942 by winemaker Christophe Billon’s grandfather.

AGE OF VINES: 45 years, on average; oldest vines 80 years

WINEMAKING: Partially destemmed (70%); fermented on indigenous yeasts in temperature controlled, stainless steel tanks. Aged for 26 months in French oak cask (300L; 50% new wood).

TASTING IMPRESSIONS: Aromas of black fruits trending toward purple, pepper, crushed stones. Full-bodied, concentrated; structured tannins, serious depth.

PAIRING SUGGESTIONS: Red meat or autumn stews; aged French cheeses

Reviews

Decanter – “A touch of soy, and some rooty bitters on the nose. A full-bodied, lush and generous palate with tangy acidity. Strongly rooted tannins weave through the wine. It’s powerful, very ripe but not overly sweet, and the oak regime is measured. Long finish, with damson and sloe. The 2019 Christophe Billon Côte Rozier Côte Rotie is a dark, brooding style of Côte-Rôtie that will repay some cellaring. Don’t drink it young. 45-year-old vines on average (some up to 80 years old), 30% whole bunch, fermented in stainless steel. Matured in 300l French oak barrels, 50% of which are new, for 26 months. 2,200 bottles made. (Drink between 2028-2032)” (95 Pts)

Vinous – “Inky violet color. A smoky mineral top note and a building suggestion of pungent flowers complement cassis, blackberry, olive and licorice. Chewy and broad on the palate, offering concentrated dark berry preserve, cherry-cola, smoky bacon and candied violet flavors that show strong energy and firm tension. Finishes very long and smoky, with gripping tannins and resonating floral and spice notes. Made with 50% whole clusters and 50% new oak.” (94 Pts)