Rémi Niero Collines Rhodaniennes Les Agathes Syrah 2021

Bright red hue, fresh and pleasant aroma of small red fruits such as red berries and fresh herbs. The taste sets smoothly and juicy and develops elegantly and fresh.

 

 

Rémi Niéro makes beautiful, exclusive Condrieu and Côte Rôtie in the Northern Rhône. He represents the third generation of winemakers at the eponymous estate. With some seven hectares, Niéro may seem small, but in minuscule, fragmented appellations such as Condrieu and Côte Rôtie, that is a huge asset.

Although we would of course prefer to drink such exclusive wines as Côte Rôtie every day, that would be a rather expensive affair. Moreover, Côte Rôtie needs some time in the cellar before it really comes into its own. Luckily for us, Niéro also makes this delicious Syrah Les Aghates. Northern Rhône syrah par excellence, but a bit more affordable and immediately accessible.

 

Les Aghates is a 100% Syrah, grown on the higher hills near the village of Condrieu, within the Collines Rhodaniennes appellation. The grapes are planted on a soil of clay and limestone, the vines are about twenty years old. After fermentation, the wine matures for 12 months in wooden barrels.

With its seductive floral, peppery nose, its ripe black cherries, elegant acids and refined tannins, this is a delicious mini-Côte-Rôtie. A little less complex and a little less long-lasting than its big brother, but certainly no less tasty! Drink it young or slightly matured, preferably with a nice meat dish such as côte de boeuf or leg of lamb.

Drinking at
A wonderfully accessible red wine, ideal with cold meat dishes or light grilled dishes.

Shelf life
Drink now, will keep for 4 to 6 years.