A man that needs no introduction, and a leading figure in the Northern Rhône. Yves is known for crafting precise, characterful wines across a wide range of appellations including Condrieu, Côte-Rôtie, Saint-Joseph, and Crozes-Hermitage. Based in Chavanay, at the southern tip of Condrieu, the domaine has been family-run for three generations, with Yves taking the helm in 1987. Since then, he has expanded the vineyard holdings significantly and developed a reputation for both innovation and deep respect for tradition.
The estate now encompasses over 75 hectares, farmed with increasing attention to organic principles. In the vineyards, low yields and careful selection are prioritised to preserve fruit purity and terroir transparency. Cuilleron’s wines consistently express site-specific nuance, whether from granite-rich slopes in Saint-Joseph or the schist-laden terraces of Côte-Rôtie.
Vinification is thoughtful and minimally interventionist. Whites—particularly the Condrieus—are whole-cluster pressed and fermented with native yeasts, often in a mix of stainless steel and oak, with regular bâtonnage to build texture. The Viognier is expressive yet refined, offering floral lift, stone fruit, and a signature mineral edge. Reds undergo long macerations and are aged in barrel, with varying proportions of new oak depending on cuvée and vintage. Cuilleron also explores lesser-known Rhône varietals and IGP bottlings, bringing the same meticulous attention to detail. His wines are benchmarks of modern Northern Rhône—polished, terroir-driven, and consistently vibrant across vintages.