M. Chapoutier Côte-Rôtie Neve 2020

How is it possible to marry this kind of syrah power with the extraordinary refinement of this Cote-Rotie? It just glides effortlessly over your palate. Then, right at the end, the power creeps up on you and inexorably pulls you into its orbit, as if this was the planet Jupiter. Amazing mineral intensity at the dazzling finish. From a vineyard at the north of the appellation on pure mica-schist soil. From biodynamically grown grapes with Demeter certification. Drink or hold.

Brilliant all the way, and possibly the finest vintage for this cuvée to date, the 2020 Côte Rôtie Nève is 100% Syrah from mica schist soils in the northern part of the appellation and was destemmed and is still resting in 30% new demi-muids. Gorgeous pure cassis fruit as well as crushed stone, graphite, and violet notes define the bouquet, and it’s medium to full-bodied, with terrific concentration, ultra-fine yet certainly present tannins, and a great finish. This structured yet flawlessly put together Côte Rôtie will benefit from short-term cellaring and keep for 15-20 years.

A little spicier and earthier than La Mordorée this year, more savoury. Medium-bodied, precise and dry - packed full of dense, ripe tannins. Very ripe, with a good sense of harmony and integration. Excellent balance. Long finish. Ripe and seductive, without overt oak influence. The alcohol is high but doesn't feel unbalanced thanks to the concentration of fruit.

The 2020 Cote Rotie Neve is full of purple raspberries but dressed up with hints of dried herbs, particularly mint. It's medium to full-bodied, not as rich or complete as the Mordoree, but it is silky, elegant and long. It should be another terrific vintage of this relatively new parcellaire bottling.