2016 Domaine Rostaing, Cote Rotie, Cote Blonde 6x750ml

Vinous 96

Bright purple. Expansive blackberry, licorice, smoky bacon and potpourri aromas are complemented by a strong mineral overlay. Seamless and broad on the palate, offering concentrated black and blue fruit liqueur, salty olive and floral pastille flavors and an emphatic jolt of exotic spices. Finishes with repeating mineral, floral and dark fruit character, supple, well-knit tannins and outstanding tenacity. [Josh Raynolds, 09/04/2019]

Anticipated maturity: 2025-2035

Robert Parker 97

It’s worth reminding readers that this is from a specific lieu-dit and is not a blend of plots from the larger Cote Blonde. The 2016 Cote Rotie La Cote Blonde comes close to equaling the quality of the La Landonne, echoing that wine’s floral notes but in a slightly more herbal way. The raspberries here are more briary, the roses more evocative of hips than flowers. It’s medium to full-bodied with a rich, velvety texture and a tremendous finish. [Joe Czerwinski, 11/07/2017]

Anticipated maturity: 2021-2040

JancisRobinson.com 18.5

Magnum. The nose starts with oak, but the fruit still asserts control on the palate, and this is absolutely thrilling to taste – sweet blackberry, black cherry, toasted spices, bay leaves. Everything that you could hope for from this style. (RH) [05/18/2023]

Anticipated maturity: 2020-2036