2016 Cote Rotie la Landonne
By Delas Freres
2016 Cote Rotie la Landonne from Delas Freres, Rhone
A sip of the 2016 Cote Rotie la Landonne from Delas Freres is akin to embarking upon an exhilarating journey through the hallowed terroirs of the Rhone region. This notable vintage is, without doubt, one of the standouts amongst the impressive array of acclaimed reds this revered vineyard has produced over the decades.
The Essence of Rhone in a Bottle
This concentration of geology, weather and skilled winemaking craft creates a wine that is a veritable manifestation of the Rhone's most desirable traits. Majestically expressive and robustly structured, 2016 Cote Rotie la Landonne balances power with grace and exhibits a broad pallette of nuanced flavours wrapped in silky tannins.
The hallmark of this spectacular vintage is maturity. The wine clearly benefits from the exceptional conditions presented by that extraordinary year: a symphony of sun-drenched summer days and cooler autumnal evenings translating into perfectly ripened Syrah grapes.
A Unique Vintage Shaping Fine Wine Investments
The 2016 Cote Rotie la Landonne from Delas Freres throws light on nature's prowess in crafting fine wines that enhance the astute investor's portfolio. This exceptional investment-grade wine illustrates the shades of complexity characterising the unique 2016 vintage in unparalleled finesse.
With hints of black fruits, liquorice and spice unfolding gradually across the palate, punctuated by immaculately integrated tannins and vibrant acidity, it's an experience worth investing both time and discerning taste in. Such characteristics contribute to its solidity as an investment proposition within the competitive world of fine wine trading.
A Symphony of Complexity and Balance
Powerful yet poised, 2016 Cote Rotie la Landonne marries the intensity of liquorice, black cherry and blackberry with a delicate undercurrent of violets and the faintest trace of spices. It is indeed this intricate marriage of power and subtlety that positions it as a remarkable testament to the elegance of the Rhone's Syrah grape in the right conditions.
The finale to this epicurean symphony is superbly complex and impressively long-lasting, creating a sensation that lingers long on the palate. Leaving one in no doubt about the potential of this fine wine as an essential addition to any collector's cache or investor's portfolio.
Market price (CAD)
$2,320.00
12x75cl
Highest score
95
POP score
93.33
Scores and tasting notes
Unlike most vintages (which require cellaring), the 2016 Cote Rotie La Landonne is already drinking well. It is perfumed and floral, with violets, herbs, pepper and rosemary notes coming together in a kaleidoscope of aromas and flavors that are backed by layers of silky-textured raspberry fruit. Medium to full-bodied, it's creamy and lush on the palate, with a long, delicate finish.
Joe Czerwinski - The Wine Advocate, 31 October 2018