2000 Cote Rotie

92% Syrah, 8% Viognier, Côte Blonde, mica schist and argilo-calcareous soils, average vine age of 25 years, 100% de-stemming, traditional vinification with temperature control and immersed cap, cuvaison of 18-22 days, 18-22 month maturation in oak barriques (1/3 new) and foudres, bottled without fining or filtration. Mid ruby. Hint of rusty nails and sweet oak on the nose. Rather a strange cocktakil which carries through slightly uncomfortably on the palate. Extremely drying and rustic finish. (JR)

The medium ruby-colored 2000 Cote Rotie does not possess a great deal of power or richness, but it offers an elegant, superficial yet pleasant, herb-tinged raspberry and cherry character with hints of vanilla and white flowers in the background. Enjoy this delicate Cote Rotie during its first 5-7 years of life. The son of the late Robert Jasmin continues to demonstrate a fine touch with his elegant, finesse-styled Cote Roties, which emerge from three hillside vineyards above the village of Ampuis. Importers: Kermit Lynch Wine Merchant, Berkeley, CA; tel. (510) 524-1524, and Alain Junguenet, Wines of France, Mountainside, NJ; tel. (908) 654-6173