2016 Cote Rotie

Deep brilliant ruby. Smoke-accented aromas of fresh dark berries, olive and pungent flowers, along with a hint of gaminess that builds with air. Chewy and spicy in the mouth, offering bitter cherry, cassis and floral pastille flavors that show very good depth and building sweetness. Chewy tannins frame the finish, which echoes the gamy note and lingers with strong, blue-fruit-driven persistence. (JR)