E. Guigal Shiraz Cotes-du-Rhone 2003 Reviews

E. Guigal Shiraz Côtes-du-Rhône 2003 Tasting Notes

E. Guigal is synonymous with the Rhône Valley wines. From their Château d'Ampuis in the Côte-Rôtie in the northern Rhône Valley, Guigal produces luscious but prohibitively dear single-vineyard wines, La Landonne, La Mouline, and La Turque. The family-owned wine estate also operates as a nègociant, buying grapes and wine from local producers in the region and they reliably can do no wrong. Their Cote-du-Rhône is a cuvèe blend of Syrah 55%, Grenache 35%, and Mourvèdre 10%. The 2003 vintage is a good representative of wines from this region and Guigal's talent as a nègociant. The nose is bright with red berries, herbs, spice, and vanilla. The full-bodied wine begins slightly tight but then opens up, offering a round, well-balanced mouth of ripe berries, brambles, pepper, and a hint tobacco. Aromatic, solid structure with moderate tannins and a lingering and silky finish that radiates finesse. The supple red can benefit from aging, but drinks elegantly right now.