Côte-Rotie Cru La Landonne AC 0.75L

La Landonne is one of the most famous single vineyards of the Côte-Rôtie — a steep slope on the Côte Brune, whose iron-rich slate gives the Syrah a dark, powerful structure that clearly stands out from the more elegant wines of the Côte Blonde. Delas Frères, one of the oldest houses in the northern Rhône valley, only bottles this site in exceptional vintages — the 2020 is one of them.

In the glass, it shows a deep ruby red with violet reflections. The nose brings dark plum, blackberry, and black pepper, plus the notes of graphite and olive tapenade typical of the Côte Brune. On the palate, the wine is dense and structured, with firm, still youthful tannins and a long, spicy aftertaste. A wine that needs time — and rewards those who give it to it.

Potential until at least 2035. Serving temperature: 17–18 °C. At the table, it pairs well with braised leg of lamb with herbs of Provence, wild boar ragout, or aged Pecorino. Anyone opening it now should decant for at least two hours.