2013 Domaine Barge Cote Blonde
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Tasting notes
(aged in 10% new oak): Vivid ruby. Floral-accented scents of raspberry, red currant and peppery spices are lifted by a bright mineral component. Spicy, lively bright red fruit and smoked meat flavors show energy and focus. Finishes with a lingering suggestion of red berries and licorice, a brisk mineral quality and dusty, slow-building tannins that add gentle grip.
Critic scores
Richard Hemming MW, jancisrobinson.com
Josh Raynolds
More reviews and scores
Checking in as a blend of 95% Syrah and 5% Viognier that was fermented with 100% whole clusters and aged 30 months in two- to five-year-old, 600-liter barrels, the 2013 Côte Rôtie Côte Blonde is surprisingly tannic and structured, with an herbal edge in its raspberry, charcoal, pepper and black olive bouquet. It needs more ripeness, but will benefit from a year or two in the cellar and, depending on how the tannin integrates, drink well through at least 2023.
Smoky, opulent and exotic. Loads of fruit, loads of spice. Dry and compressed on the palate, with just a hint of mustiness on the finish. (RH)