Summary
The most northern area within the Northern Rhône, with a long history of grape growing stemming from Roman era plantings. This area has since been entirely planted with staked (échalas) vines, due to the extremely steep vineyard slopes. This is a red wine only appellation, with 20% of Viognier permitted as a co-ferment. The accompaniment helps to stabilise the wine's colour, and increase aromatic complexity. Wild yeast fermentations are typical, with barrique (225L) or larger demi-muids (500L-600L) maturations providing a variance of oak influence. Vineyards were reduced to a mere 70 ha in the 1970’s, but has since found much success from the Guigal family grower-producers, and highly rated wine scores from the famed wine critic Robert Parker. Today, wines achieve premium and super-premium pricing.