Viniou Reviews
The Carmina cuvée 2022 from Pierre-Jean Villa in the Côte-Rôtie appellation is a noteworthy representation of the Northern Rhône’s finesse and complexity. Crafted mainly from Syrah, possibly with a small proportion of Viognier co-fermented as tradition sometimes dictates in Côte-Rôtie, this red wine stands out for its aromatic depth, structure and impressive ageing potential. The 2022 vintage experienced favourable growing conditions, resulting in generous fruit expression balanced with remarkable freshness. Pierre-Jean Villa, a vigneron dedicated to expressing terroir over technique, employs meticulous vineyard management and precise vinification, often utilising whole bunch fermentation to preserve vibrancy and accentuate the wine’s elegant tannic framework.
The Côte-Rôtie AOC is renowned for its steep terraced vineyards carved into schist and mica-rich soils, which contribute profoundly to the wine’s characteristic minerality and perfume. Benefiting from a continental climate, the region marries ample sunlight with cool winds, promoting slow ripening and a delicate balance of ripeness and acidity in Syrah grapes. With a history that stretches back to Roman times, Côte-Rôtie stands as one of the Rhône Valley’s oldest and most prestigious appellations, revered for its ability to deliver both power and aromatic complexity in red wines.
With regard to food pairings, Carmina 2022 shines alongside dishes that feature game birds such as pigeon or quail, roasted pigeon with morel mushrooms, or classic lamb shoulder slowly cooked with Provençal herbs. Within local cuisine, the pairing with braised beef cheeks or a daube de boeuf aux olives would be a natural fit, allowing the savoury depth and gentle spice of the wine to complement rich, slow-cooked flavours. For a slightly lighter pairing, a mushroom tart or earthy lentil salad offer a satisfying interplay with the wine’s peppery aromatics.
For optimal enjoyment, decant the wine at least one hour before serving to allow its nuanced bouquet to unfurl. Serve at a temperature of 15-17°C, slightly cooler than room temperature, which will accentuate its freshness while highlighting the textural finesse and fragrant notes so characteristic of fine Côte-Rôtie.
