The 2021 Yves Cuilleron Côte-Rôtie Lieu-Dit Bonnivières is a single-vineyard Syrah sourced from the steep granite slopes of the Côte Blonde in Côte-Rôtie. Produced from old vines and crafted with Yves Cuilleron’s signature precision, the wine highlights the elegance and aromatic complexity of this exceptional site. The cooler 2021 vintage has delivered a beautifully classical expression, favouring finesse, freshness and terroir expression over sheer power.
The nose reveals black cherry, raspberry and blackberry alongside notes of violet, cracked pepper, smoked tea and graphite. The palate is refined and beautifully detailed, combining vibrant dark fruit with silky tannins and bright acidity. Layers of olive tapenade, spice and crushed stone emerge through a long, mineral-driven finish. The 2021 vintage brings remarkable purity and balance, showcasing the more elegant and perfumed side of Côte-Rôtie.
Ben’s Recommendation:
A sophisticated and beautifully structured Côte-Rôtie that rewards patience and attention. Elegant, complex and highly expressive, it pairs superbly with roast lamb, duck, venison, beef fillet and truffle dishes. Enjoy with a generous decant if drinking now, or cellar through 2040–2045 as it develops greater savoury complexity and nuance.
