Guigal Cote-Rotie Chateau d'Ampuis 2006

One wonders if Syrah might have been the first domesticated grape. Its origins in the Fertile Crescent suggests this as a possibility. Joining wheat, barley, lentils and many other food staples arising from this area Syrah shares a heritage that could be said to have fostered civilization. So approach it with reverence. Particular to the Rhone Valley in France it can be said that wines that are entirely or predominately Syrah are often full-bodied and quite flavourful with spices, black fruits and a distinctive black pepper nuance. Aromas are any or all of violets, black berries, chocolate, espresso and black pepper.

Expert Review

92 Points - Wine Advocate, February 2011
"As I have mentioned before, the Cote Rotie Chateau d’Ampuis is a blend of some of the very best sites the Guigal family owns in Cote Rotie. This cuvee is aged 38 months in 100% new oak casks, and about 2,000 cases are produced. The component parts include the famed vineyards of La Garde, L’Enclos, Grande-Plantee, Pommiere, Pavillon, Le Moulin and more recently, La Viria, which I still believe will turn out to be Guigal’s fourth single vineyard Cote Rotie when Marcel and his son, Philippe, decide it can stand alone. The 2006 exhibits gamy black currant, wood spice, roasted herb and bacon notes in a full-bodied, rich, chewy style. It was showing a bit more spicy oak than most Guigal wines tend to exhibit. It should drink nicely for 10-15 years." -Robert Parker Jr.

Food Pairings

Winged beasties with dark meat like duck, goose, squab, and griffins. Hooved game. Roasted meats.