2015 Delas Frères Côte-Rôtie La Landonne

With only about 100 cases produced each year, finding a bottle of the 2015 Cote Rotie la Landonne will prove much harder than drinking it. It's indeed a terrific wine but a bit closed and cedary at this particular moment, the 40% new oak standing out on the nose. But this cuvee has a long track record of excellence, so expect it to blossom with time in the cellar. It's concentrated and powerful but amazingly light on its feet, with firm, ample tannins that manage to convey a sense of ripeness as well. Tar, black olive, cassis and espresso elements all speak to the grape (100% Syrah) and the single lieu-dit origin.

Drink Dates: 2025 - 2040

Author: Joe Czerwinski

Issue: 234

Opaque ruby. Heady aromas of candied dark berries, incense, olive and licorice are complemented by suggestions of candied violet and exotic spices. Supple, deeply flavored and lively as well, offering powerful blueberry, spicecake, salty olive and floral pastille flavors and a peppery nuance that builds with air. Finishes smooth, floral and extremely long, with lingering sweetness and subtle, slow-building tannins.

Drink Dates: 2022 - 2032

Author: Josh Raynolds

Issue: Apr 2018