Yves Cuilleron Terres Sombres Syrah 2013

Terre Sombre (the name means "dark earth") is a reference to the Ampuis terraces consisting of dark-coloured soil. The Syrah grapes are sustainably cultivated by hand in schistose soils. They are crushed and partially destemmed before being vatted for three weeks in thermoregulated open vats. Vatting is punctuated by regular punch-downs and pump-overs. The wine is then matured for 16 months in barrique barrels. Yves Cuilleron has produced an elegant, concentrated Côte-Rôtie that will fully express its potential after a few years' keeping. The result is a deep, complex wine with aromas of black berries, spices, liquorice, flowers and even grilled nuts. Over time, the palate becomes more elegant, and its tannins take on a velvety character. The bottle should be opened one hour before serving with, for example, a duck parmentier pie with sweet potato.