Christophe Pichon Pere et Fils Case - Cornas/Cote-Rotie

Côte-Rôtie vines cling to steep granite slopes of terraced vineyards close to Ampuis on the west bank of the Rhône. These are the steepest slopes of the Rhône Valley, with the gradient reaching 60% at certain points. Vines facing southeast literally roast all day long under the summer sun – hence, “rotie.” Côte-Rôtie wines can include up to 20% white Viognier; in this case, Christophe uses 6% which brings delicacy and softness. The 2018 Promesse, made from 50-year-old vines, has aromas of liquorice, cherries and resin which lead to a smooth palate. It is concentrated and full bodied with flavours of bitter chocolate, vanilla and cherry jam followed by a lingering menthol finish.