Domaine Jean Michel Gerin Côte Rôtie Les Grandes Places is a red, a single-varietal Syrah crafted by Domaine Jean-Michel within the Les Grandes Places plot, situated in the northern part of the A.O.C. Côte Rôtie.
Historical accounts suggest that in the 16th century, Lord Maugiron, the sovereign owner of the present-day A.O.C. Côte Rôtie, had two daughters. He wished to marry them off with substantial dowries. To each, he bequeathed an equal share of his lands. One daughter was fair-haired, the other, dark-haired. The legacy of the former was named Côte Blonde (to the south), and that of the latter became known as Côte Brune (to the north). Whether fact or fable, this narrative is one of the explanations employed by Domaine Jean-Michel to elucidate the origins and characteristics of their soils. While Côte Blonde is rich in gneiss and mica, schist predominates in Côte Brune. These soil compositions are deep, often fissured, allowing the vine roots to penetrate in search of both water and nutrients. Hence, it is not uncommon to find in Les Grandes Places venerable vines, some exceeding 30 years of age.
In the case of Domaine Jean Michel Gerin Côte Rôtie Les Grandes Places, the grapes are sourced from a blend of vineyards planted in 1927, 1965, and 1989. Specifically, Domaine Jean Michel Gerin Côte Rôtie Les Grandes Places was the first wine produced by the winery outside the village of Ampuis. At that time, in the year 1988, Domaine Jean-Michel was taking its initial steps. From the outset, this winery has been known for maintaining the wine in a static state, with minimal agitation and racking, thus ensuring natural protection and ongoing contact with the lees. Domaine Jean Michel Gerin Côte Rôtie Les Grandes Places is harvested, brought to the winery, and left to undergo cold maceration for five to seven days. It then proceeds directly to natural fermentation, utilizing indigenous yeasts, followed by an extended aging period (at least 22 months). This practice is a hallmark of the majority of the wines from the A.O.C. Côte Rôtie, where prolonged barrel aging is essential to fully appreciate these reds at their best.
The saga of Domaine Jean Miguel Guerin does not end here. The current chapter is being penned with a commitment to organic cultivation (since the year 2020). Judging by current developments, this winery still has a significant journey ahead. As the adage goes, "The road is travelled well with bread and wine." And undoubtedly, the voyage becomes much more enjoyable with a bottle of Domaine Jean Michel Gerin Côte Rôtie Les Grandes Places. Secure yours today!