Deep bright ruby-red. Sappy aromas of raspberry, violet, smoked meat, mocha and brown spices. Very concentrated, deep and pliant, but not quite as vibrant or perfumed. Seems more massive and even sweeter than the Cote Blonde, but less evolved. Finishes very long, with pepper and spice notes and dark berry flavors.

Perhaps the best of the 1991s from Rene Rostaing is the 1991 Cote Rotie La Landonne. As you might anticipate, there is considerable rivalry between Rostaing and his neighbor, Guigal. Rostaing is quick to assert that his La Landonne vines are considerably older than those of Guigal. This black-colored wine offers up an exquisite perfume of licorice, violets, black-berries, and toast, staggering concentration, smooth tannin, and low acidity. It is a gorgeous, exceptionally opulent, multidimensional wine with layers of flavor. It should drink well for 10-15 years. Rene Rostaing's 1991s offer persuasive evidence of just how impressive this vintage is in Cote Rotie. Importer: Kermit Lynch Wine Merchant, Berkeley, CA; Tel. (510) 524-1524