2003 Cote Rotie La Landonne

I liked a bottle of this more last year and found it more fresh and lively; nevertheless, the 2003 Cote Rotie la Landonne was still beautiful on this occasion and gave up lots of mulled fruits, chocolate, licorice and dried herbs. Full-bodied, nicely concentrated and structured, it has a savory edge to it aromatics and tannin profile that makes me think it's best consumed over the coming decade.

I liked a bottle of this more last year and found it more fresh and lively; nevertheless, the 2003 Cote Rotie la Landonne was still beautiful on this occasion and gave up lots of mulled fruits, chocolate, licorice and dried herbs. Full-bodied, nicely concentrated and structured, it has a savory edge to it aromatics and tannin profile that makes me think it's best consumed over the coming decade.

Light ruby color. High-pitched, intensely floral nose offers mineral-laden scents of tangy red berries, fruity black pepper, cherry cola and licorice pastille. Chewy and firm, with vibrant red and dark berry tones on the palate. Quite fresh for the year but also boasts serious concentration and power. Finishes dusty, floral and long, with excellent thrust.