Benetiere Cordeloux Cote Rotie 2016

D&M NOTES:

OVERVIEW: The Cordeloux cuvée is sourced from the granitic soils of the Benetieres' estate Corps de Loup site. With the objective of crafting a transparent expression of Syrah, they maintain a traditional approach to winemaking including using high percentages of whole-cluster fermentation and aging in older, neutral barrels.

VINTAGE: 2016 was a relatively cool vintage which resulted in late-ripening and, in turn, the retention of freshness, taut structure and tension in the end wine. With fine-grained tannins, bright acidity and an emphasis on precision over concentration, this wine stands as testimony of the Benetieres' preference for elegance and technical restraint within the Northern Rhône's challenging topography.

ABOUT THE PRODUCER: After training under famed Condrieu producer Georges Vernay, in 2003, Pierre Benetiere and his wife Marie carved terraces out of Côte-Rôtie's steep southern slopes and planted vines by hand.  Since then, the couple have worked their 3 hectares organically and, in the cellar, use whole bunches, native yeasts and minimal new oak.