Remi Niero Syrah ‘Les Agathes’ Collines Rhodaniennes 2023

Most good Côte Rôtie starts around $75 these days, with the best examples easily crossing into triple digits. It’s why I get so excited when I find a bottle that can deliver that authentic Northern Rhône magic at a fraction of the price.

Enter Rémi and Krystel Niero’s stunning Collines Rhodaniennes Syrah.

This isn’t some faceless producer trying to cash in on the region’s fame. The Nieros represent the third generation of one of Condrieu’s foundational estates. Decades ago, when the entire Condrieu appellation was a mere eight hectares, their vineyards were already deeply rooted in those steep slopes, back when the estate still bore the Pinchon name (Rémi’s mother’s family).

Rémi absorbed every ounce of his father Robert’s winemaking wisdom from a young age and now commands the operation. He’s not afraid of the back-breaking work it takes to tame those terraced hills, because the reward is wines of breathtaking authenticity and natural balance.