2013 Cote Rotie
Estimated value
Buying options
Tasting notes
Deep ruby. Ripe red and dark berries on the perfumed nose, and subtle floral and peppery spice qualities building in the glass. Fleshy black currant and cherry compote flavors are enlivened by juicy acidity and complemented by a violet pastille nuance. Finishes with strong, sweet persistence and a hint of fine-grained tannins.
Critic scores
Jancis Robinson MW
Jancis Robinson MW
More reviews and scores
The inky, mostly opaque-colored 2013 Côte Rôtie Classique is the most approachable and forward of the three Côte Rôties; it is a blend of 97% Syrah and 3% Viognier that was 50% destemmed and aged two years in 15% new French oak. It offers outstanding notes of raspberries, currants, bacon fat, mulled spice and dried flowers. These lead to a medium-bodied, silky, seamless 2013 that comes up a touch short of density and concentration, yet makes up for it with charm, elegance and balance. Drink it anytime over the coming 7-8 years.
Saturated ruby. Spice- and mineral-accented aromas of red berries, cherry pit and potpourri, with a smoky topnote. Minerally, incisive and appealingly sweet on the palate, offering smoky cherry and black raspberry flavors complicated by hints of spicecake and licorice. Shows very good power and vivacity on the nervy finish, with the smoke and spice notes repeating. The fruit here is mostly from Le Plomb, Viallière, Verenay and Champon.
Sample taken on 3 November. Bright crimson. Quite brutal and dry and uncompromising. Dry finish. Mid weight. (JR)