2022 Cote Rotie Les Rochains
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The 2022 Côte Rôtie Les Rochins is a bigger, denser wine, with killer smoky black fruits, crushed stone, seared meat, and hints of peppery herbs on the nose. It's a full-bodied, powerful Côte Rôtie with fabulous mid-palate depth, building yet perfectly ripe tannins, some background oak, and a great, great finish. Aged for 18-20 months in 30% new French oak barrels, it's an absolute stunning effort in the vintage that should be snatched up by readers. Drink 2027-2042. Located in Ampuis, Domaine Garon continues its steady rise under the leadership of brothers Kévin and Fabien Garon, who have gradually taken over the day-to-day operations since joining the estate in 2003. Farming is sustainable, and winemaking remains largely traditional, with small amounts of whole cluster fermentation, long macerations, and élevage in 20-25% new French oak for approximately 18 months. Bottling occurs without fining or filtration. The range includes several Côte Rôtie cuvées, highlighted by the elegant, complex Lancement, the structured, powerful Les Rochins, and the more accessible La Sybarine, along with an expanding lineup of whites from Condrieu, Saint Joseph, and Hermitage.
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Jeb Dunnuck
Yohan Castaing, Wine Advocate
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The 2022 Cote Rotie les Rochins, fermented with 30% whole clusters, presents a slightly introverted profile, revealing aromas of violets, flowers and dark berries layered with spicy hints as it opens. Medium to full-bodied, enveloping and charming yet youthful, it’s beautifully balanced, with a refined, linear mid-palate that transitions into a long, ethereal, vibrant finish. Though not the most outwardly expressive Côte-Rôtie, this stunning, silky wine—matured for 20 months in barrels, 30% of which are new—shows impressive finesse.
The 2022 Côte-Rôtie Les Rochins was raised for 20 months on 228-liter French oak barriques, of which 30% were new. Intense licorice, black plum, clove, graphite and a shot of espresso are front and center. Medium- to full-bodied and round, the 2022 engages the palate with an elegant flavor concentration, closing with vivid freshness on the fruit-driven finale. Give it two more years in bottle.