critic reviews
The 1996 Cote Rotie Cote Blonde is the epitome of elegance, finesse, and black raspberry fruit wrapped in smoky oak and pepper. Luscious, with an opulent texture, enough tangy acidity to provide delineation, and a fleshy, sweet finish, this well-structured wine is the most flashy of these offerings. Rostaing's Cote Blonde always performs well regardless of its evolutionary stage. The 1996 should drink well for 10-12 years. Importer: Kermit Lynch Wine Merchant, Berkeley, CA; tel. (510) 524-1524
The deepest, most saturated color of Rostaing's '96s, as well as the most complex on the nose. Aromas of black raspberry, violet, smoke and pepper. Fat and sweet but a bit disjointed today, with damp earth, pepper and herbal notes. As I recall, this was a difficult wine to taste last year from barrel as well. Today Rostaing prefers the Landonne, but he quick to note that the Cote Blonde is always his best wine in the long run.