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.
100% Marsanne, from vineyards located in the village of Chavannay, just outside the appellations of Cote Rotie and St Joseph. Matured in stainless steel vats, on its lees for six months before bottling.
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.
"Marsanne Vdp des Collines Rhodanniennes. Delicate and complex, with white peach, flowery
and yeasty character. Full-bodied, the palate is ample and open with gorgeous pear and tropical fruit flavours."
" Delicate and complex nose with white fruit, white flower and yeasty character. Full-bodied, with aromas of pear, tropical fruit and impeccable acidity. The ending goes on and on with delicious pear aromas. Brilliantly done." 3,000 bottles produced. Bottle of the week, Sunday Tribune, 27 Oct. 2002
