The trio of Guigal La La Cote Rotie's are legendary as some of the greatest wines in the world. Any time one gets to try a bottle is a rare occasion. Now, 2002 was not a great or even good vintage, but this bottle had been purchased for an affordable price on release and well stored waiting for the right time to open. At age 20, it was drinking quite well if not at the level of some better vintages. This is 95% Syrah and 5% Viognier which was less than usual due to the botrytis that came from the wet conditions. Inky purple in color, opaque and bright. The nose is pretty with black raspberries, dried flowers, spices and black pepper. With air, a bit of gamey meat notes. Full bodied. Creamy texture. On the palate, this is flat out delicious. Some depth. More elegant than a powerhouse. Some complexity. Fully mature with no tannins. It drinks great on its own and went very well with a vegetarian sausage and bean cassoulet. It sure seemed like this bottle anyway had at least another five to eight years.
