Cote Rotie La Serene Noire, Domaine Yves et Mathilde Gangloff 2022

One of the sleepers of the vintage, the 2022 Côte-Rôtie La Sereine Noire needs time to open up from the glass. After a few moments of aeration, it greets the taster with the purest graphite. Black pepper, black plum, cedar and black cherry notes add more complexity. Layered and deep, the 2022 hits the full-bodied palate with elevated flavor concentration, all wrapped in bright acidity to maintain spot-on balance. Walking off the stage with persistence on the expansive finale, the 2022 is an authoritarian La Sereine Noire that will reward patience. (Drink between 2030-2040)

While Elsa Gangloff declined my request to taste at the property, arguing that all the wines were already sold, I was able to acquire a bottle of 2022 Cote Rotie la Sereine Noire. Upon initial encounter, the wine appears introverted and shy but gradually reveals complex aromas of black olive, pepper, coniferous forest, bay leaf and dark berries, all enhanced by hints of smoke. Medium to full-bodied, concentrated and deep, it's layered and generously extracted, energetic and lively, framed by structured tannins that assert themselves to a long, mineral and pencil lead-inflicted finish. This is a rather deep, seamless wine that needs time to chill out.