2012 Domaine Michel & Stephane Ogier, Syrah, La Rosine, Collines Rhodaniennes, Rhone, France.
The lovely and serious Syrah La Rosine Collines Rhodaniennes comes from a plot of vines next to Condrieu and granite rich soils making this entry level Syrah a worthy stepping stone to the famous Cote-Rotie offering from this top line estate in the northern Rhone. This clear and precise example from Stephane Ogier was cold fermented in stainless with native/indigenous yeast from 100% de-stemmed grapes and aged a year in neutral/used barrels, it is classic in profile and exceptional in value, this is a wine to indulge in and cherish the quality! Beautiful violets, black olives, earthy spices and detailed mineral and black fruits lead the way with blueberry, black raspberry and subtle cassis unfold on the lively palate along with fresh peppercorns, kirsch, flinty stones, bay leaf, anise and lingering plum. This is supple, medium weight, invigorating and dynamic Syrah with delicate tannins, good acidity, mild alcohol at 12.5% and it explores beauty and grace very well, in the 90’s it was Rostang, Guigal and Colombo, now it is Ogier, Chave and Clape are the northern Rhones you must have! This was a rare treat to taste this wine, and I only hope I can get to find more, viva la Syrah! Drink this over the next 3 to 5 years and never pass up the chance to get the Cote-Rotie from Ogier either!
($32 Est.) 92 Points, grapelive
