Côte Rôtie La Landonne, Domaine René Rostaing 2020

Almost pure perfection, the 2020 Côte Rôtie La Landonne just about jumps out of the glass and offers up utterly classic La Landonne aromatics of smoked black fruits, cassis, scorched earth, cured meats, and ground pepper, with more violet and floral nuances in the background. These all carry over to the palate, where the wine is full-bodied, dense, and powerful, with building tannins and an incredibly layered mouthfeel. It's not for the instant gratification crowd, but this is one seriously good Côte Rôtie.

The 2020 Côte Rôtie La Landonne is more pure and vibrant than I’m used to from this terroir, yet I have no doubt that will emerge with time. Pure cassis, blackberries, candied violets, and peppery notes all emerge on the nose, and it has balance, terrific tannins, and a great finish.