Domaine Rostaing, Syrah, Ampodium, Côte-Rotie, Northern Rhône, France 2018

Mostly blended but still in barrel, the 2018 Côte-Rôtie Ampodium is a terrific introduction to the Côte Rôties of Rostaing. Mulberries and licorice appear on the nose, followed by savory notes of espresso and black olives on the medium to full-bodied palate. It's silky, fine and complex, with a long, softly dusty finish. I also tasted a richer, more structured lot from la Viallière that will be blended in, along with a terrific-looking barrel from Leyat that will add floral, raspberry and mocha notes.

Historically referred to as the Côte-Rôtie "Classique", Rostaing's Ampodium is elegant, well-balanced and classic! Ampodium refers to the Provencal name for the famed village of Ampuis where the vines are planted.

VINIFICATION
Traditional vinification, including wild yeast fermentation. Grapes are generally not destemmed. Maceration can vary from 7-20 days depending on vintage.

AGING
Aged in a mix of 225 and 500 liter barrels (about 7% new).