The 2022 Yves Cuilleron Côte-Rôtie Bassenon is a single-vineyard Syrah from one of the most prestigious hillside sites in Côte-Rôtie. Sourced from steep schist-rich terraces in the Côte Brune sector, the wine includes a small proportion of Viognier co-fermented with Syrah, following the region’s traditional practice. Yves Cuilleron’s meticulous vineyard management and restrained winemaking allow the vineyard’s power, perfume and complexity to shine through.
The nose is intensely aromatic, revealing blackberry, black cherry and blueberry alongside notes of violet, cracked pepper, smoked meat and exotic spice. The palate is concentrated yet remarkably elegant, combining dense dark fruit with silky tannins, vibrant acidity and a distinctive mineral backbone. Layers of olive tapenade, liquorice and graphite unfold through a long, savoury finish. The 2022 vintage delivers impressive richness while maintaining the freshness and precision that define great Côte-Rôtie.
Ben’s Recommendation:
A superb Côte-Rôtie that captures the balance of power and finesse for which the appellation is renowned. Complex, perfumed and highly age-worthy, it pairs beautifully with roast lamb, venison, duck, beef fillet and truffle-based dishes. Decant if drinking young, or cellar through 2040–2045 as it develops further savoury complexity and elegance.
