2016 St Joseph, Les Serines, Yves Cuilleron, Rhône, France
OVERVIEW
A stunning wine from cult producer, Yves Cuilleron, generally agreed to be one of the best wines of St Joseph AOC. The Les Serines benefits from old-vines, massale selection and organic viticulture This big wine spends 18 months in barrique, and is resplendent in old-vine spice and complexity.
CRITIC REVIEWS
Dark purple. A deeply perfumed bouquet evokes dark fruit liqueur, pungent flowers and olive paste, while black pepper and mineral nuances add complexity. Sappy and focused on the palate, offering densely packed, mineral-laced blackberry, boysenberry and violet pastille flavors and an exotic hint of Moroccan spices. Clings with impressive tenacity on the finish, which features mounting tannins and lingering floral and spice character. (Jun18) - 94 Points. Josh Reynolds
FOOD PAIRING INSPIRATION
St. Joseph wine, hailing from the Northern Rhône region of France, is primarily made from the Syrah grape. It typically offers a combination of red and black fruit flavors, moderate acidity, and a structured, sometimes earthy, character. To complement the wine's characteristic try grilled meats, roast game, roast chicken and strong aged cheese like Comte.
VINTAGE AND WINEMAKING
In the world of wine, some vintages are remembered as exceptional, and the 2016 vintage in the Northern Rhône region of France is undoubtedly one of them. This celebrated vintage has left an indelible mark on the wine world, showcasing the unique terroir and the craftsmanship of the local winemakers.
The 2016 vintage in the Northern Rhône was characterized by near-ideal growing conditions. A cool, wet winter helped replenish water reserves in the vineyards, while a warm and dry summer with just the right amount of rainfall allowed the grapes to ripen slowly and evenly. The result was a harvest of exceptional quality grapes, packed with flavor and complexity.
Syrah, the predominant grape variety in the Northern Rhône, truly shone in the 2016 vintage. The long, temperate growing season allowed the grapes to reach optimal maturity, resulting in wines that are rich and opulent. The aromatic profile of these Syrahs is marked by dark fruits, blackberries, plums, and a delightful hint of black pepper. The wines are well-structured with balanced acidity, fine tannins, and impressive aging potential.
The 2016 vintage allowed winemakers to exercise their skills to the fullest. Many opted for traditional winemaking methods, including whole-cluster fermentation and extended aging in oak barrels. The result was wines that are not only expressive of their terroir but also bear the distinctive mark of the winemaker's artistry. It's a vintage that rewarded patience, careful vineyard management, and thoughtful winemaking techniques.
PRODUCER NOTES
Yves Cuilleron's vineyards are located in some of the most prestigious appellations in the Northern Rhône, such as Condrieu, Côte-Rôtie, and Saint-Joseph. His winemaking philosophy revolves around respecting the unique terroir of each site. He believes that great wines are made in the vineyards, and it's evident in the profound expression of terroir found in his bottles.
Cuilleron is particularly celebrated for his Viognier wines from the Condrieu appellation. His Condrieu wines are a masterclass in elegance, showcasing the Viognier grape's floral and stone fruit notes. His Côte-Rôtie wines are equally impressive, known for their structure and complexity. Whether white or red, his wines are a harmonious blend of tradition and modernity.
Yves Cuilleron's commitment to sustainable viticulture is another feather in his cap. He pays close attention to the health of his vineyards, adopting eco-friendly practices and striving for balance in the ecosystem. This respect for the environment shines through in the purity and vibrancy of his wines.
In conclusion, Yves Cuilleron is a visionary winemaker who has left an indelible mark on the Northern Rhône wine scene. His wines are a testament to the marriage of tradition and innovation, showcasing the elegance of the region's terroir. If you have the chance to taste one of Yves Cuilleron's creations, consider it a journey through the soul of the Northern Rhône, expertly bottled by a true maestro of winemaking.
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SERVICE AND STORAGE TIPS
We recommend this wine undergoes at least 1 hour decanting and should be ideally stored around 12°C and served around 16-18°C.
DELIVERY INFORMATION
Delivery is free when you spend over £150. For orders under this amount then a £9.99 delivery charge will be applied.
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Every bottle sold by CoolerSomm is subject to our quality guarantee. If a wine is corked or faulty, we will replace it.
2016 St Joseph, Les Serines, Yves Cuilleron, Rhône
| Wine Card | |
| Wine Producer | Domaine Montirius |
| Wine Region | Northern Rhone |
| Wine Classification | St Joseph AOC |
| Wine Type | Red |
| Grape Variety | Syrah/Grenache |
| Vintage | 2016 |
| Vintage Quality | Outstanding - Parker |
| Maturity | Drink from today until 2035 |
| Body | Full Bodied |
| Sweetness | Dry |
| Alcohol % | 13% |
| Bottle Type | Rhone 75cl |
| Serving Temperature | 16-18°C |
| Food Pairing | Beef, Comte, Lamb, Game |
| Awards | 95 Points - The Wine Front |
| 94 Points - Josh Reynolds |
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