Imported by Vieux Vins, Vineburg CA.

A blend of estate and purchased grapes.  Côte-Rôtie comprises 230 hectares spread across 130 owners; Guigal owns 20 and buys 50, producing one-third of Côte-Rôtie production.  The chalky schist of the Blonde vineyards offer finesse and the higher clay content in Brune lend higher polyphenols, more color and firmer structure.  Raised in wood for three years of which 40% is new oak.  Automatic pigeage, 5% Viognier added for its aromatics.

Twenty years on.

Ruby.  An agreeable grind of pepper to season this fleshpot Syrah.  Peony, rare lamb and a confit of myrtille fruit with smoky grip and a chocolate-y vinosity.  Now -2030+.