2012 Cote Rotie
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Tasting notes
96% Syrah, 4% Viognier. Reductive nose seems a bit tight and lean at the moment. Silky tannin, refreshing acid and bright fruit but there is also a bitter element which becomes quite dominant on the finish. Intense, lengthy, but has a mean streak. (RH)
Critic scores
Average Score
Jancis Robinson MW
Richard Hemming MW, jancisrobinson.com
More reviews and scores
The 2012 Côte Rôtie Brune et Blonde shows the sexy, charming, forward style of the vintage and gives up lots of raspberry, flowers and olive characteristics, medium to full-bodied richness, and sweet, supple tannin on the finish. It’s going to dish out tons of pleasure over the coming decade.
(raised in 50% new oak for 18 months): Saturated ruby. A highly perfumed bouquet evokes black and blue fruit liqueur, incense and fresh flowers, and notes of smoky minerals, vanilla and licorice adds complexity. Coats the palate with sweet cherry-vanilla and blueberry flavors given lift and cut by zesty acidity and a hint of cracked pepper. Finishes on a gently tannic note, showing excellent lift and floral-driven tenacity.
All 20 plots are vinified and aged separately, of which Philippe has assembled eight for me to taste. Finesse on the nose. He is delighted to report that in the mouth 'it pinotte a little' (ie shows some Pinot character). Sinewy and lightly chewy. Could do with just a little more acidity to make it lively? To drink relatively early. (JR)