Rodrigo Banto

At Cave de la Côte in Tolochenaz, Switzerland, Rodrigo Banto has held the chief oenologist post since 2003, a long run that has let him define the house style with consistency. The work has centered on Merlot, and under Banto’s name the grape is presented through clarity, texture, and site expression rather than force. That emphasis puts the craft on patience, restraint, and close reading of the land.

Since 2018, the oenologist responsible role at Cave de La Côte has added another layer to a relationship already built over years in the cellar and vineyards. Banto’s Merlot work starts with the vineyard map: exposure, soil, and the selection of plots that can give the grape the right balance. “Merlot needs more sun than heat, which certain plots in La Côte make possible. We selected them, looking for those with deep, clayey soil.”

The method is practical and specific, built on conditions that support the fruit rather than trying to overwhelm it. The public reception has followed the same line. A vertical tasting of the producer’s merlots, in Banto’s account, drew such strong interest that a second format had to be considered. The response points to wines that can hold attention across vintages and bring trade and enthusiasts into the same conversation.

Among the wines tied to Rodrigo Banto, Inspiration 2009 is notable. The most cited bottle is Merlot «Inspiration» 2009 for Cave Cidis, described as the best merlot in the world at the 2010 Mondial du Merlot. That bottle remains the clearest reference attached to Banto’s name, and to the precision associated with his Merlot work.

Rodrigo Banto’s honors include Mondial du Merlot and assemblages, Gran Maestro du merlot (2022), Grand Prix du Vin Suisse, Swiss Winery of the Year (2019), and Mondial du Merlot, best merlot in the world (2010).