De l’Autre Rive ("From the Other Bank") is named after its origins, referencing the vineyard’s location on the left bank of the Rhône, opposite Condrieu. This wine is made entirely from Syrah, sourced from old vines planted in clay soils with rolled pebbles, contributing to the wine’s structure and character. The vineyard reflects the unique terroir of the Rhône Valley, blending tradition and expressive winemaking.
The grapes are fully destemmed and undergo fermentation in open stainless-steel tanks, with a three-week maceration process featuring frequent but gentle pump-overs. Malolactic fermentation takes place in barrels, and the wine is aged for 10 months in used oak barrels. With an alcohol content of 13%, this Syrah displays expressive aromas of red fruits and licorice, while the palate is smooth, featuring fine, well-integrated tannins. It is a balanced and approachable representation of Rhône Valley Syrah.
Julien Pilon 'De l'Autre Rive' Syrah 2023
10% discount for 6-pack
Julien Pilon's journey into winemaking was shaped early on through formative experiences such as picking and bottling wild grapes in school, family meals centered around wine, and summer work in vineyards. His fascination with the energy, innovation, and quality of Rhône Valley winemakers solidified his passion. After earning a BTS in Viticulture and Oenology, Pilon trained under esteemed winemakers like Yves Cuilleron and gained diverse experience at Mas Amiel in Roussillon and Terra Remota in Spain. Returning to the Rhône Valley, he collaborated with Pierre Gaillard, whose wife had inspired Pilon's initial interest in winemaking.
In 2010, Pilon produced his first vintage in his parents' garage, emphasizing wines that reflect their terroir with both finesse and concentration. Challenges in acquiring vineyards led him to establish a négociant business, sourcing grapes from northern Rhône appellations. By 2011, he secured vines with the help of Patrice Porte in Condrieu, enabling him to expand his operation. Over the next decade, Pilon built a dedicated team and, in 2020, inaugurated a new winery in Chavanay, cementing his commitment to crafting wines that honor their land and identity.
The Northern Rhône wine region, located along the Rhône River in southeastern France, is renowned for its steep, terraced vineyards and exceptional wines. Spanning from Vienne to Valence, it is smaller than the Southern Rhône but highly regarded for its unique terroirs and iconic appellations. The region’s reds are predominantly made from Syrah, producing powerful yet elegant wines with flavors of dark fruit, pepper, and earthy notes. Notable red wine appellations include Hermitage, Côte-Rôtie, and Cornas.
The Northern Rhône is also celebrated for its white wines, crafted from Viognier, Marsanne, and Roussanne. Appellations like Condrieu and Hermitage produce distinctive whites that range from aromatic and fresh to rich and age-worthy. The granite and schist soils, combined with a cooler climate and diverse exposures, contribute to the region’s complexity and finesse, making it a cornerstone of Rhône Valley winemaking.
Hermitage is equally famous for its exceptional white wines, crafted from Marsanne and Roussanne. These whites are known for their richness, complexity, and ability to age gracefully, often developing honeyed and nutty notes with time. With a long history of winemaking dating back to ancient times, Hermitage represents the pinnacle of Rhône Valley viticulture, producing both red and white wines that are highly sought after for their elegance and depth.
