2017 Yves Cuilleron - Cote-Rotie Coteau de Bassenon
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Tasting notes
An interesting contrast to their Les Côtes Cornas, with the 10% Viognier making an obvious impact, giving a definite stone-fruit edge. There seems to be more obvious oak too, and a glossy, more polished overall feel. Less peppery, more flowery. Very stylish. (RH)
Critic scores
Average Score
Richard Hemming MW, jancisrobinson.com
Richard Hemming MW, jancisrobinson.com
More reviews and scores
Drawn from the southern portion of the appellation and a hefty 10% Viognier, the 2017 Cote Rotie Bassenon is true to the prevailing style there, one of silken elegance. It starts off with herbal notes layered over plums and blueberries on the nose, and while it's full-bodied, it's not heavy or overly rich, instead staying silky and fine, soft and approachable. Drink it over the next decade.
Vivid purple. A highly perfumed bouquet displays spice-accented black/blue fruits, potpourri and incense, along with building mocha, olive and smoky bacon flourishes. Fleshy and expansive on the palate, offering concentrated yet energetic cherry, blueberry, spicecake and violet flavors that are enlivened by a jolt of cracked pepper. Smoothly blends richness and finesse and finishes long and gently tannic, leaving floral, blue fruit liqueur notes behind.
Meaty nose with leather, blackberry, smoothly textured tannins and liquorice to finish. Fairly light for Côte Rôtie, but the flavours are spot on. (RH)