Domaine du Coulet, No Wine`s Land, Cotes-du-Rhone
Country: France Region: Northern Rhône
Varietal: Syrah Vintage: 2023
Colour: Red Style: Dry
Producer: Domaine du Coulet
About the Producer:
A seventh-generation vigneron, Matthieu Barret studied viticulture in Beaune and joined his grandfather in Cornas in 1997. After inheriting a parcel of vines from his grandfather, who used to sell grapes to the local co-operative, Matthieu built up his own domaine in Cornas. He immediately started working the vines organically and produced his first vintage in 2000.
Vineyards:
This vineyard sits at around 200 metres altitude on the northern edge of Cornas, but its rocky limestone soils fall outside the granite-based criteria for Cornas AOC. Initially considered for Saint Joseph, the classification was rejected locally, leaving the site
designated as Côtes du Rhône—hence the “No Wine’s Land” name. The vines grow on smooth, terraced slopes facing south and south-east, rooted in limestone with small clay veins. Farmed organically and biodynamically, the site is worked entirely by hand, with animal power used for ploughing.
Vinification:
All grapes were destemmed but left uncrushed, with fermentation carried out in small concrete vessels, including egg-shaped vats, requiring no temperature control. Indigenous yeasts handled the ferment with no additives or SO used at this stage. Ageing took place in the same concrete vats for 11 months without racking, preserving purity and texture. The wine received only a light filtration before bottling, with a minimal addition of SO to ensure stability.
Product Features: Vegetarian, Vegan, Certified Organic, Practicing Biodynamic
Tasting Notes:
The 'No Wines Land' opens on a perfumed nose of wild herbs, violets and black cherries. On the palate, vibrant notes of black pepper, bramble and olive are framed by sappy tannins. The finish is refreshing and savoury, with a mineral edge.
