Menthol, Pepper, Dark Fruits

Savoie / Red / Mondeuse / Organic , Biodynamic 

The name of this cuvée (the coteau of death) refers to the steepness of the slope, reaching 40% in some parts, and how physically demanding it is to work. First planted by the Benedictine monks during the 11th century, this was prime terroir until it was abandoned in the 1930s, and only recently replanted (1999). The élevage takes place in demi-muids for around ten months, the wine is bottled without fining or filtration and just 10mg/l of sulphur added. A serious Mondeuse somewhat reminiscent of a fine northern Rhône Syrah with its quality of tannins.

Notes on the producer

After studying politics in Lyon, Nicolas Ferrand worked as a land manager for Savoie’s chamber of agriculture but soon found out that office work wasn’t for him. He created Domaine des Côtes Rousses in 2013 when fellow vigneron Mathieu Goury alerted him that 1.5ha had become available in Saint-Jean-de-la-Porte. This is undoubtedly one of Savoie’s finest terroirs and an area Nicolas holds dear, his grandfather used to herd cows up there. Organic from the outset, Nicolas started using plant infusions against diseases in 2018 and completed biodynamic certification in 2021. Coming from a long line of farmers, he loves animals and is also keen on working alongside them whenever possible. His most densely planted vineyards are ploughed by horse, while sheep (shared with Brice Omont of Domaine des Ardoisières) roam through the vineyards in winter, eating weeds and fertilising as they go.