2018 Domaine Georges Vernay 'Maison Rouge' Côte-Rôtie

“From vines in Condrieu and Côte-Rôtie, Vernay's signature tradition of excellence is one of elegance, with the whites showing excellent poise and the reds dominated by red fruit and silky textures.” – Wine Advocate

You know it’s not your typical Thursday when it’s Vernay Day!

Half-priced single-vineyard Côte-Rôtie here!

Côte-Rôtie translates to "the roasted slope," and is home to the world’s most complex expression of Syrah. This tiny, rugged area of just 300 hectares of vines yields minuscule production. Much-coveted wines are born from these terraced slopes that extend down steep inclines to the Rhône River.

Truthfully, it’s hard to find a better balance of finesse and power anywhere.

Robb Report describes it well: “Expect full-on flavors of blackberry, plum, black cherry and cassis with touches of spice like clove, black pepper and star anise, earthy notes of saddle leather, truffle and black olive, and a hint of flowers. You will find strong tannins, both oak-derived and from the grape itself, and bold acidity. While wines from the northern Rhône will gracefully age in your cellar for up to 50 years, the best drinking window for these is eight to 12 years.”

Very little of this other tremendous opportunity.

96 Points – Decanter “The nose shows more intensity and a more dark-fruited profile than their Blonde du Seigneur, with some dark plum and blackberry along with the raspberry fruit. Still beautifully fragrant, however. Medium-bodied, ripe but subtle and elegant, with good acidity and a mineral seam. Tannins are present, very fine, textured like fine sand. Very good now, but will be better from 2027. Lieu-dit Maison Rouge, from the Blonde side (gneiss and granite bedrock). Partly destemmed, 24 months in barriques, 30% new. Drink 2021-2033.”

95 Points – Wine Advocate “The 2018 Côte-Rôtie Maison Rouge emanates from a selection of vines planted in the 1950s—the balance of the Domaine's plantings in this lieu-dit go into the blended Blonde de Seigneur bottling. It's all Syrah, with about 30% vinified as whole clusters, and matured in 20% new oak. Hints of cedar and wood spice join red berries and cherries on the nose, while the medium to full-bodied palate features ample depth, silky tannins and an expansive feel. The finish adds a hint of mocha and some sturdy tannins, so give it several years in the bottle. Drink 2025-2040.”

95 Points – Vinous “Opaque ruby. Assertively perfumed black and blue fruit aromas are complemented by suggestions of candied flowers, olive and exotic spices. In a concentrated, densely packed style, showing fine definition and spicy cut to its bitter cherry, cassis, fruitcake and violet pastille flavors. Conveys a suave blend of power and energy, finishing taut, spicy and impressively long, with youthfully gripping tannins and resonating florality. One-third whole clusters and 20% new oak. Drink 2027-2037.”