Côte-Rôtie Les Grandes Places 2022 Clusel-Roch

Les Grandes Places 2022 is Clusel-Roch's single-parcel red Côte-Rôtie made from Syrah grapes planted in 1935 on a steep mica schist slope north of the appellation. This vineyard is small, covering less than 1 hectare, and cultivates the low-yielding Serine selection, which gives this wine its firm and tightly structured character.

The 2022 growing season was the hottest and driest the Rhône had experienced since 1950, and it was even drier than 2003. In the Côte-Rôtie region, thinning was necessary as early as June, which reduced the yield. However, the wine exhibits moderate alcohol levels and genuine freshness, clearly demonstrating how the old roots cope with these conditions. These roots penetrate several meters deep into the schist layers, finding water even where the thin topsoil holds none.

Across the northern Rhône region, the 2022 Côte-Rôtie vintage exhibits a soft, velvety texture. In contrast, Les Grandes Places stands out with its usual firm structure, making this vintage feel more full-bodied than opulent. A wine worthy of aging, it will be at its best for enjoyment through 2050.

Professional reviews