WINEMAKER'S NOTES:
Deep dark color with mauve tints. Spices, black fruits and delicate oak aromas. A dense, expressive and intense nose. A tannic and racy wine. Aromas of prunes, blackberry and vanilla. Powerful, concentrated and structured palate. A wine from a tannic and muscular vintage due to the hot climate. Solid tannins, well rounded by long oak aging.
Blend: 93% Syrah, 7% Viognier
TASTING NOTES:
As expected, the 2013 Cote Rotie Château d’Ampuis is a more austere, firm and structured wine than either the 2011 or 2012, yet I still feel it’s a hidden gem in the vintage given its fabulous concentration and sweet tannin. Its inky purple color is followed by serious notes of cassis, graphite, crushed rock and cracked pepper. Medium to full-bodied, with fabulous purity, high, yet integrated acidity and a big finish.
- Robert Parker's Wine Advocate, 96 pts.
Solidly built, with a compact core of steeped currant and plum fruit flavors liberally laced with singed alder, leather and tar notes. Keeps a taut edge through the finish, as this is youthfully tight, with good, buried guts. Should unwind beautifully in the cellar. Best from 2020 through 2035.
- Wine Spectator, 95 pts.
Flinty and smoky elements, with coal smoke, praline and boot polish, as well as red and dark plums. Impressively complex and detailed. The palate has assertive, deeply ripe and fluid tannins that drive long and carry dark plum fruits. Warming mocha to close. Drink now and beyond.
- James Suckling, 94 pts.
