French oak foudres

2013 is the first vintage

The first vintage of this wine was released in 1962

The natural ripeness of the year amps up the Chardonnay flavors

Satin-like in texture

Chapoutier, Cote Rotie Mordoree Vintage:1997 French oak foudres(100% syrah, from vines in the Cote Blonde that are reportedly almost 65 years old), Opaque ruby. An exotically perfumed bouquet presents candied dark berries and cherry cola, with notes of Indian spices, anise and smoked meat building with air. Fleshy but focused on the palate, with intense black and blue fruit flavors and a touch of candied violet. Tangy minerals add lift and cut to a strikingly long, smoky and gently tannic finish. Josh Raynolds