2014 Côte-Rôtie

The magic of vintage variation is that there is something for everyone—a phenomenon accentuated by 2014 and 2015, virtually opposite vintages in the Rhône Valley. While we wait for the deep, rich, structured 2015s to be released—and for them to reach maturity, which may take a bit longer—we can already start to dig into the lovely 2014s. The wines are wonderfully expressive with approachable structure, offering immediate pleasure for those who value traits like delicacy and elegance. The cool-vintage Syrah aromatics here (flowers, black olive, black pepper) are unmistakable Côte-Rôtie, while the palate is round and supple with extremely silky tannins. It is about as downright swallowable as a young Côte-Rôtie can get. –Anthony Lynch

TECHNICAL INFORMATION

• Vintage 2014
• Bottle Size 750mL
• Blend 90% Syrah, 10% Viognier
• Appellation Saint Joseph
• Country France
• Region Northern Rhône
• Vineyard Planted between 1993 and 2008
• Soil Schist, Clay
• Winemaker Lionel Faury
• Aging Aged for 18 months in oak demi-muids (600-L) and barrels (220-L), of which 30% are new
• Farming Lutte Raisonnée
• Alcohol 13%