Georges Vernay Maison Rouge Côte-Rôtie 2019

17.5+/20 POINTS: James Lawther MW, JancisRobinson.com

100% Syrah.
Aged 24 months in barrel (30% new oak).

Old Vine Syrah (1924, 1970, 1972), southern sector site of Maison Rouge, combines sand, granite and heavier soils in two plots, destemmed, 3 week vinification, pumping overs, 1-2 manual cap punchings, aged 30% new, 70% 3-4 year oak 24 months, aged 40-50% new, 50-60% 1-3 year oak 24 months, unfined, filtered, 5,000 bottles.

The flagship Côte Rôtie Maison Rouge comes all from a lieu-dit in the southern portion of the appellation and was fermented with around 20% whole clusters and aged two years in barrel. Beautifully complex and nuances, with notes of framboise, black cherries, bay leaf and loads of spice, this beauty has medium to full-bodied richness, fine, elegant tannin, solid concentration and a great finish. It shines for its elegance, purity and complexity.

“Deep crimson hue. Dark and subdued but with an undertow of dark fruit and spice and just a hint of oak. Lovely depth of fruit on the palate but with a lightness of touch and marked vibrancy and freshness. Tannins so fine and well-integrated you can barely feel them. Persistent finish. Great balance.”
 — James Lawther MW, JancisRobinson.com

ABV: 14%