Vineyards: these are spread over 3 communes on the right bank of the Rhône: Saint-Cyr-sur-Rhône, Ampuis and Tupin-Semons in the French Department of the Rhône.
Soil types: very steep granitic terraces covered with a layer of sand-lime on the "Côte blonde" (pale slopes) and clay and iron oxide on "Côte brune" (brown slopes).
Climate: moderate continental, dry and hot in the summer, regular rainfall during the other seasons.
Background: one of France's oldest vineyards, the Côte-Rôtie was greatly developed by the Romans and was consecrated Local A.O.C. in 1940. Legend has it that in the 16th century Marquis Maugiron had 2 daughters, one blonde and the other brunette. Each received a dowry of half of his vineyard slopes, and so the Côte Blonde and Côte Brune were born."
News: a national Syrah conservatory has been set up to retain its genetic heritage. More than 650 clones will be studied over the next decade.
Area under cultivation*: 224 hectares, yearly production: 9548 hl, basic yield : 43 hl/hectare.
* Source: harvest statement 2004.
Grape variety mix: at least 80% Syrah, with an authorised maximum of 20% Viognier
Pruning: long pruning for the Syrah (formed into a pyramid of 2 vine plants on 4 props).
Viognier pruning can involve a long stem called an “arçon”, with the other spurs being pruned to no more than 2 eyes.
Wine making: natural alcohol content by volume 10% minimum; fermentation: 2 to 3 weeks; matured in casks for 18months to three years.
