Passion, enthusiasm and energy bubbles from the optimistic Yves Cuilleron. From 3.5-ha in 1987, the estate now boasts 45 hectares. This is one of the great Northern Rhone success stories. Cuilleron`s wines continue to express greater elegance and balance, as their oakiness and sheer ripeness has been dialled back in recent years. One-third new oak or less-and sometimes none at all-is now the norm for all the white wines, while the top red wine bottlings can see 80% to 100% new barriques.
In 2006 Yves has fulfilled one of his long time ambition by purchasing 0.6 ha of old vines in Cornas (some of them 90 years old) and the first release of which we got few cases is quite impressive.
90% Syrah, 10% Viognier. South-exposed, terrassed vineyards on granite soils in the village of Tupin-Semons, South Cote Rotie. Bassenon is the name of a stream flowing nearby. The grapes are harvested manually, sorted and partially de-stemmed. To obtain maximum extraction, the fermentation last for three weeks. The wine is then matured for 20 months in new and 1 year old oak barrels. Drink from 2005 with game, red meats and casseroles dishes. 8,000 bottles produced.
