94
95/100
Delas Cote Rotie La Landonne Red 2017
Vintage
2017
Region
Côte-Rôtie, Rhone Valley
Country
France
Style
Still
Grape Varieties
100% Syrah
ABV
Dietary
-
Sustainability
-
Critics
94: 95/100
Delas Freres
Founded 160 years ago in the heart of the northern Côtes du Rhône, Delas Freres today crafts world class wines from both northern and southern Rhône.
Tending the steep sloping vineyards, which total some 30 hectares of vines, the team adapt their growing practices to each plot of vines to let the terroir of the Rhône shine through in the wines.
Crafted by winemaker Jacques Grange (who is originally from Burgundy), the wines from Delas Freres epitomise finesse and elegance. Recent vintages from the vineyards of Hermitage, Crozes-Hermitage, Chateauneuf-du-Pape, Côte Rôtie, Condrieu, Côtes-du-Rhône and Côtes-du-Ventoux have bee lauded in the press for their intensity of flavour and excellent value.
Read MoreVinification
The grapes used in the “La Landonne” cuvée are hand picked at optimum maturity. Fermentation takes place in traditional open-topped concrete tanks, after three days of cold maceration. Before fermentation, the maceration process is conducted under controlled temperatures of 82°F to 86°F (28°C to 30°C). Daily cap pushing down and pumping over are carried out for about 10 days. The total vatting time can be up to 20 days.
The wine is aged for 14 to 16 months in new or one year old oak casks.
2017
In terms of the flowering, it took place two to three weeks later than in 2015, which ultimately corresponds to a typical year. The first stage of flowering took place in sunny conditions, whereas the second stage unfortunately took place in heavy rain. By the end of summer the vineyards had returned to a perfectly healthy state and ripening went well, particularly after a beneficial rainy spell in early September.
Tasting Note
The wine‘s deep color is underscored by plummy hues. A complex nose shows deep, fruity aromas with hints of licorice and roasted coffee. Endowed with a dense and silky tannic structure, this is a full, fleshy wine that provides an ample and generous palate. Its lasting finish speaks of considerable ageing potential.
Food Pairing
This wine pairs wonderfully with fine meats, roasted beef, water games, truffles and spicy stews. The bottle should be opened 1 to 3 hours before drinking. This wine needs at least 3 years cellaring before it can open up its complexity. In such case it is strongly recommended to decant before serving.
