2010 E. Guigal, Cote Rotie, Brune Et Blonde 1x750ml

Vinous 93

Deep ruby. Powerful aromas of dried cherry, blackberry and licorice, with a suave floral pastille nuance in the background. Densely packed bitter cherry and dark berry preserve flavors show a refreshingly bitter edge and pick up spicecake and dark chocolate qualities with air. Dusty tannins come in late and give shape to the finish, which clings with superb tenacity and a resonating floral quality. Shows the power and structure of this outstanding vintage to full effect but comes off as polished and, I daresay, approachable. [Josh Raynolds, 02/01/2015]

Anticipated maturity: 2018-2034

Robert Parker 93

A wine I reviewed earlier this year, the 2010 Cote Rotie Brune et Blonde is a stunning Cote Rotie. Made from 96% Syrah and 4% Viognier and aged in equal parts new and once used barrels, it’s medium to full-bodied, elegant and seamless, with rocking notes of raspberries, peppered bacon, coffee bean and violets. Drink it anytime over the coming decade or more. The father/son team of Marcel and Philippe Guigal continue to keep their estate at the top of the hierarchy in the Rhone Valley. All the way from their inexpensive Cotes du Rhone to their top-end Cote Roties and Hermtiage, the attention to detail and focus on quality is unmatched. Readers should also check out the recent Rhone Retrospective article I wrote that covered the Saint Joseph Vignes des Hospices, Cote Rotie Brune et Blonde, Cote Rotie Chateau d’Ampuis and Cote Rotie La Mouline cuvees going back for over a decade. I said it there, and I’ll say it again here, this estate is producing some of the most incredible and singular wines in the world. [Jeb Dunnuck, 01/12/2014]

Anticipated maturity: 2014-2015