Wines Côte-Rôtie Maison Rouge - 2019

Maison Rouge 2019 from the Côte-Rôtie AOC is a beautiful expression of the Northern Rhône's iconic red wines. Crafted predominantly from the Syrah grape, sometimes blended with a small proportion of Viognier to enhance aromatic complexity, this vintage captures the essence of its origin. The 2019 season in the Rhône Valley was marked by a warm, dry summer, contributing to wines of concentration and ripe tannins. The steep, terraced vineyards of Côte-Rôtie, rooted in schistous soils with touches of granite, shape a wine characterised by deep colour, intense aromas of blackberries, blackcurrant, violets, and a signature hint of smoky bacon or charcuterie. Traditional winemaking methods, such as partial use of whole bunches and ageing in French oak, impart structure, finesse, and the potential for graceful ageing.

Côte-Rôtie lies at the northernmost edge of the Rhône Valley, where the climate is strongly continental with marked differences between hot summers and cold winters. Such conditions, together with the region's famed slopes that receive optimal sunlight and benefit from the protection against harsh winds, result in slow, even ripening of the grapes. The history of winemaking here dates back to Roman times, and today the area is renowned for producing some of the most elegant and age-worthy Syrahs in the world, combining powerful fruit with remarkable freshness and complex savoury undertones.

This style of wine pairs beautifully with robust cuisine. Classic local dishes such as duck breast with a reduction of red wine and shallots, or roasted lamb with Provençal herbs, are excellent choices. It also shines alongside dishes featuring wild mushroom, venison, or rich, earthy stews, and partners surprisingly well with matured cheeses like Saint-Marcellin or Fourme d’Ambert.

For optimum enjoyment, serve Maison Rouge Côte-Rôtie 2019 at 16-18°C, ideally after decanting for an hour to allow the wine’s aromatic complexity to unfold fully. This will reveal both its generous fruit and finely integrated spicy oak, making it a memorable addition to any table or cellar.