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NOTES
The northern Rhône Valley: a stretch of wine country where the river sets the tempo. The river shapes a fold of land that hugs the vineyards and confers their authenticity, their point of origin. Narrow gorges, sheer slopes, tremendous terraces. Amid this arresting geography, the vines stand firm and offer sumptuous wines. The Rhône has given the grower his home port, and the plantations drink deep in its exceptional bank.
Yves Cuilleron rejects off-the-shelf ideas. His vision of vine cultivation is highly personal: not conventional, not organic, not biodynamic. And his philosophy is simple: "Produce the best possible grapes”. He practises "viticulture raisonnable”, an integrated, eco-friendly approach in which observation is key. He particularly monitors vine vigour: this must be neither too high nor too low, and, if well controlled, ensures grapes of greater concentration and balance. All vine work vital to grape quality is conducted: planting of Viognier vines deriving solely from the family’s own yards ("selections massales”), and of Syrah vines from high-quality clones and from "selections massales”; high planting density; green harvesting; leaf thinning. Yves Cuilleron is also mindful to respect soil balance, just like Uncle Antoine before him: no insecticides; three to five treatments a year at most; and small amounts of organic fertiliser.
TASTING NOTES
Sourced from old vines (40 years) facing east/southeast, on the slopes of Coteau de Verlieu. Le Lombard is not a district but a cuvée brand. Bit biscuity on the nose; a bit oaky, spice, and little white flower as well. A bit oily texture, probably because of the level of glycerol which is usually can be found in Rhone whites. Floral and spices in the mouth. After it breathed for a while, peach smell came out. An awesome wine with food.
REVIEWS
Gorgeous rich, spicy apple aromas; on the palate racy, taut acidity underlies rich fruit weight – excellent balance. Lovely and fresh on the finish, with a lick of spicy apple. 89-91 Points, Robert Parker, The Wine Advocate
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