Wines Côte-Rôtie Alain Graillot - La Guiraude - 2022

Alain Graillot – La Guiraude 2022 is an expressive and elegant red wine from the distinguished Côte-Rôtie AOC, located in the northern Rhône Valley. Made from predominantly Syrah grapes, often complemented by a touch of Viognier (as permitted by the appellation), this vintage stands out for its vibrant aromatic profile and its refined structure. The 2022 vintage is shaping up to be exceptional in the Rhône, marked by a warm and dry growing season that allowed optimal ripening of the grapes while retaining freshness and balance. The organically farmed vineyards sit on the emblematic steep schist and granite slopes of Côte-Rôtie, which impart finesse and a distinctive mineral backbone to the wine. Traditional vinification and the skilled hand of Alain Graillot bring forward deep, dark fruit character with silky tannins, along with nuances of violet, black olive, smoked meats, and subtle peppery spice.

The northern Rhône is a region with centuries of winemaking history, renowned for its unique expression of Syrah and its dramatic terroir. The sharply terraced vineyards benefit from a continental climate, with hot summers and cool, often misty mornings, especially along the river. The complex soils of mica-schist, granite, and iron-rich clay allow for deeply rooted old vines and low yields, resulting in concentrated wines of great purity and longevity. Côte-Rôtie itself is famous for its “roasted slope” exposure, which enhances ripeness and aromatic intensity.

This supple and structured wine pairs wonderfully with both refined and robust dishes. Traditional regional pairings include roasted duck with cherries, slow-braised lamb shoulder with herbs, or a classic coq au vin. Its savory notes and depth allow it to complement game birds, grilled beef or venison, and earthy preparations with lentils or wild mushrooms. Cheese options might lean toward aged hard cheeses, such as Comté or Tomme de Savoie, yet the wine is also stunning with a very mature goat cheese from the region.

For optimal enjoyment, serve this Côte-Rôtie between 16 and 18°C. Decant young vintages for about an hour to allow the bouquet to fully unfurl and the tannins to integrate. This wine can be appreciated now with proper aeration but will reward several years of cellaring, gaining complexity and silkiness with age.