94pts James Suckling

A textural, broad and layered 95% syrah and 5% viognier Cote-Rotie with aromas of dark berries, roasted meat, dried thyme and warm spices. It’s medium-bodied with fine tannins. Broad and ample, with plenty of density and texture, yet it remains elegant and gracious. Harmonious, with verve and poise. It’s well-rounded and focused, with a velvety texture at the center and a long finish. Drink or hold.

Tasting Notes

Born from the blend of two terroirs, a mica schist soil on the steep slopes of Viallière and granite on the steep terraces of Bassenon, the "Eminence" cuvée reflects the nobility of its origins. It exudes aromas of blackcurrant, blackberry, violet and white pepper. The palate is harmonious, fleshy, showing a very beautiful maturity without any heaviness. A deep and persistent finish will reveal all the charms of a great Syrah terroir.

Lamb stew with olives, farm rabbit with black truffle, beef rib, goose with chestnuts, roast veal kidneys, squab with cloves of garlic.

Vineyard Notes

The Côte-Rôtie vineyard is located on the slopes of the right bank of the Rhône and covers three production communes: Saint-Cyr-sur-Rhône, Ampuis, and Tupin-Semons. The vineyard is located between 180 and 325 meters above sea level. It includes 73 classified localities. There are currently approximately 300 hectares in production. 

Our plots are located in the places called Bassenon, in the commune of Tupin & Semons, and La Viallière in the commune of Ampuis. The main grape variety planted is Syrah. We also have a few Viognier vines. The planting density is 9,000 vines per hectare. The vines have an average age of 40 years. They are trained on stakes in steep areas, with short goblet pruning. Or trellised, with a double cordon de Royat in less steep areas. The plurality of terroirs that we are fortunate to work gives rise to 3 Côte-Rôtie vintages with distinct profiles. Eminence, juicy, fresh and spicy. Vires de Serine, ample, charming and intense. Les 400 de la Viallière, distinguished, floral and spicy.

Côte-Rôtie is the only red wine in the Northern Côtes du Rhône region that can combine Viognier (up to 20%) with Syrah. Syrah produces high-quality wines that are rich in color and tannins. Viognier adds finesse and aroma to the Syrah. The wine has a deep ruby ​​color. Côte-Rôtie wines are characterized by their complexity and richness, with notes of black fruits, spices, and pepper. They are aged in oak barrels to add depth and structure to the wines.

The Côte-Rôtie vineyard is one of the oldest vineyards in France, developed by the Romans. During the Middle Ages, a legend says that Lord Maugiron shared his wealth between his two daughters, one brunette and the other blond, hence the names that the wines have kept: Côte Brune and Côte Blonde.

About the Winery 

Founded in 1973, Domaine Niero is run today by the third generation, Remi Niero. Remi took over from his father, Robert, in 2004, after inheriting a lifetime of knowledge and passion for winemaking from both his father and grandfather.

The vineyards are located on the terraced hillsides of Condrieu and Côte-Rôtie, two prestigious appellations in the Northern Rhône. Niero's production is very limited, but his wines represent the best that the Rhône has to offer. The vineyards are cultivated sustainably, in an effort to grow better grapes and preserve the special landscape of the vineyards. For Rémi, the essence of winemaking lies mainly in the vineyard: the wines must show where they come from.

Niero has 3 hectares in Condrieu & 2 hectares in Côte-Rôtie.

Blend: 95% Syrah and 5% Viognier

Sustainable