2011 Cote Rotie Cote Brune
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Tasting notes
Gilles Barge made three wines in 2011. Mid crimson with soft rim. This is really quite leathery already on the nose. Then almost eye-wateringly fresh on the finish. A little bit lean in fruit for the level of acidity. (JH)
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Robert Parker
Julia Harding MW, jancisrobinson.com
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As usual, the 2011 Cote Rotie Cote Brune is the most serious wine of this trio. Aromas of charcoal, truffles, Asian plum sauce, black raspberries and smoke jump from the glass of this medium to full-bodied, impressive rich, pure, delicious effort. With silky tannins as well as low acidity, it can be consumed over the next decade. (Not yet released) Gilles Barge’s offerings are all traditionally made, old style Cote Roties, but he does appear to have made some moderate concessions by picking riper fruit, at least for the Cote Brune cuvee. 2010 is one of the finest vintages I have tasted from Barge, whose wines are often too herbaceous for my tastes. Importer: Europvin; www.europvin.com