2020 M. Chapoutier, Cote Rotie, La Mordoree

Dark ruby. Displays expansive cherry liqueur, cassis and candied violet qualities on the intensely perfumed nose, along with hints of vanilla, violet and olive. Juicy and broad on the palate, offering appealingly sweet black/blue fruit, mocha, licorice and floral pastille flavors that are enlivened by a core of juicy acidity. Gently chewy tannins add shape to a strikingly long finish that features resonating blue fruit, olive paste and spice notes. 50% new oak.

As always, the 2020 Cote Rotie la Mordorée is a blend of two adjacent parcels: one in La Côte Blonde and one in La Côte Brune. Menthol, blueberries and raspberries appear on the nose of this full-bodied, concentrated but seemingly weightless effort. Fine and silky in feel, it finishes long and elegant. It should be approachable within a few years and drink well for up to two decades.