Domaine Rostaing Côte-Rôtie “Côte Blonde” 2020

Northern Rhône, France · Syrah-based red

About the estate: Founded in 1971 by René Rostaing, this family domaine is celebrated for Côte-Rôtie wines that combine aromatic intensity with elegance and finesse. René learned from two respected local winemakers—his uncle, Marius Gentaz, and his father-in-law, Albert Dervieux—and his son Pierre took over in 2015, continuing the family’s traditional approach.  The prized Côte Blonde bottling comes from two old-vine parcels, with plantings dating to the 1970s. Predominantly Syrah with a small proportion of Viognier, it is aged primarily in used barrels, allowing the fruit and vineyard character to remain the focus rather than new oak. 

Tasting notes: Black raspberry, cassis and ripe cherry mingle with floral aromas of lavender and spring blossoms, followed by incense, warm spices and hints of smoked meat. Full-bodied and deeply concentrated, the 2020 pairs its richness with a remarkably silky texture and finely polished tannins. Layers of dark berries, anise and mineral notes unfold through a long, perfumed finish. This is a powerful yet graceful expression of Côte-Rôtie, with the depth and structure to develop beautifully with extended cellaring. 

Notable ratings: 100 points — Jeb Dunnuck; 98 points — Vinous, Josh Raynolds; 97–99 points — Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate, Joe Czerwinski (the Wine Advocate rating is a preliminary barrel assessment).  It also ranked No. 75 in Jeb Dunnuck’s Top 100 Wines of 2023, with Dunnuck comparing its quality to the exceptional 1999 and projecting two decades or more of longevity.