Guigal 2011 Cote Rotie Brune et Blonde 750ml

Critical Acclaim:

• I loved the forward, sexy style of the 2011 Cote Rotie Brune et Blonde, and it’s just hard to resist today. Loaded with notions of kirsch, blackberry, toasted nuts and spice, it’s medium to full-bodied, elegant, seamless and hedonistic. I’d happily drink it anytime over the coming decade.
  
  One of the highlight tastings during my two weeks spent working in the northern Rhône was with Philippe and Marcel Guigal, who in this critic’s opinion, consistently fashion some of the greatest wines in the world. Looking at the 2011 Côte Rôties, which were bottled earlier this year, these are gorgeous wines that show the perfumed, sexy nature of the vintage; yet, they have more density, concentration and depth than just about every other wine from the vintage. Marcel characterized the vintage as charming and elegant, and while they’re insanely good even today, they’ll evolve gracefully and have broad drink windows. The 2012s should be bottled next year and this is another terrific vintage at this estate, which shouldn’t be a shock to anyone who follows the estate. The wines are already expressive, yet have more fat and texture than the 2011s, although maybe not the same level of focus or length. I suspect this is another vintage that will show nicely on release next year and age gracefully, with broad drink windows. The 2013s, in contrast, are inky, masculine, structured and not very much fun to taste at the moment. The extended elevage will help, but these will certainly be longer term prospects that will demand cellaring. Score: 92 points -- Jeb Dunnuck, Wine Advocate, Dec 2015

• Still youthfully tight, with a core of steeped cherry, plum skin and fig paste flavors coiled up with lush singed vanilla bean and fruitcake notes. Offers a dense, sappy feel through the finish, as the woodsy note still needs to be soaked up fully. Worth cellaring. Best from 2017 through 2027. 600 cases imported. Score: 92 points -- JM, Wine Spectator, Oct 2015

• Bright ruby. Smoky, mineral-accented cherry and dark berry scents are lifted by a suggestion of peppery spices. Juicy and penetrating on the palate, showing excellent focus and depth to its bitter cherry and blackcurrant flavors. Opens up slowly on the long, floral finish, which is firmed by dusty, fine-grained tannins. This suave wine is delicious right now but should age gracefully on its balance. Score: 92 points -- Josh Raynolds, Vinous, Feb 2015