2019 Cote Rotie
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Tasting notes
Given Merlin’s background working with Rostaing, his Côte-Rôtie is unsurprisingly excellent. The nose is dark and brooding with a typical black olive twist and earthy savouriness to complement the bramble fruit. The palate is full and rich, with layer upon layer of swarthy black cherry fruit and a raspberry juiciness to it. It’s intense and relatively closed at the moment, yet with incredible purity and a long, saline finish. Just 13.5% alcohol, it’ll be fascinating to watch this evolve in bottle.
Critic scores
John Livingstone-Learmonth, Drink Rhône
More reviews and scores
(cask) very dark robe; the nose is intense, wide, on chocolate, black cherry, gently brewed fruits, some sun evident due to the close packing, hints of jam, raspberry. The palate is dense from the off, so is sturdy, fuelled, has size in the thick tannins. It has a searching depth, really accumulates on the finish. It’s rather like 1947 in style, will live well. “2018 was like this a year ago, but then became more clear,” F Merlin. From 2025. 2045-47
About the producer
François Merlin is one of the most exciting names in the Northern Rhône today, producing elegant Syrah and Viognier.