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Côte Rôtie is a French wine Appellation d'Origine Contrôlée (AOC) located in the northern part of the Rhône wine region of France. The vineyards are located on the hillsides near the commune of Ampuis, south of Vienne and north of Condrieu.
The name Côte Rôtie translates to "roasted slope," indicating the ample sunshine the vineyards receive, greatly aiding the ripening of the grapes. This region has a continental climate, with cold winters, hot summers, and rainfall evenly spread throughout the year. The steep slopes make viticulture challenging, with many vines being terraced into the hills.
In terms of grape varietals, Côte Rôtie is especially known for its Syrah, however up to 20% of Viognier can be used in the blend. These wines tend to have a deep color, strong bouquet, and exhibit powerful flavors. Côte Rôtie wines are characterized by their aromas of raspberry, tar, and a unique characteristic often described as bacon fat.
Côte Rôtie has two prominent vineyards, the Côte Brune and Côte Blonde. It is said that wines from the Côte Brune are more sturdy, tannic, and long-lived, while wines from the Côte Blonde are typically softer and more elegant.
These wines are generally best enjoyed after several years of aging, when their full complexity comes to the forefront. They can be paired with a variety of foods including grilled meats, game, and rich cheeses.