Côte-Rôtie AOC La Landonne 2021 E. Guigal

What kind of wine it is

Côte-Rôtie “La Landonne” by E. Guigal is a still red wine made exclusively from Syrah in the northern part of the Rhône Valley. This wine displays full structure and an intense profile, clearly geared toward long ageing in bottle. Vinified in stainless steel with a prolonged maceration and matured in small new pièces barrels, it offers depth, firm tannins and remarkable persistence. The character of the cru stands out with precision and provides a tasting experience that reflects its origin and meticulous production.

Where it comes from

Produced in France, in the Northern Rhône region, Côte-Rôtie “La Landonne” is from one of the denomination’s most renowned plots. The vineyards are situated on steep slopes with clay-limestone soils rich in iron oxides, which impart a dark colour and a solid tannic texture. The continental climate, with hot, windy summers and sharp temperature fluctuations, promotes the slow ripening of the grapes, so freshness remains high and concentration increases. Manual viticulture on these tough terrains is an integral part of the cru’s identity.

How it is produced

The Syrah grapes come from vineyards around 35 years old and reach the winery at full phenolic maturity to ensure extraction and longevity. Fermentation takes place in temperature-controlled stainless steel vats with frequent pump-overs assisted by CO2, followed by a long maceration on the skins for at least four weeks. Ageing continues for about 40 months in small new pièces barrels, a process that enhances aromatic complexity, stability and evolutionary capacity, integrating toasty and spicy notes with the richness of the fruit.

Tasting notes

In the glass, the wine has an intense dark red hue, almost black, indicative of great extraction. The nose is broad, with aromas of ripe black fruits, leather, liquorice, spices, and a toasty character from the long new wood maturation. On the palate, the wine opens powerfully, with massive yet well-defined tannins, supported by richness and a long finish. Its balance evolves over time, always keeping the terroir’s character recognisable.

Food pairings

The important structure and concentration pairs best with richly flavoured meats and slow-cooked dishes. The wine is a perfect match for large game, such as roast haunch of venison, as well as braised beef, hearty stews, and aged cheeses. In French tradition, it suits dishes like roasted leg of lamb or game civet. With savoury cuisine, it enhances nuances of liquorice, spice and toastiness.

When to serve it

Côte-Rôtie “La Landonne” is a wine for special occasions, ideal in autumn and winter or during long lunches. Thanks to its extraction, tannins, and prolonged ageing, it shows a marked aptitude for ageing and can be kept for a long time, evolving in complexity and texture. Serve at a controlled temperature and, if possible, decant beforehand to encourage aromatic openness and better integration of the woody notes.