Domaine Jean Michel Gerin Côte-Rôtie Champin Le Seigneur 2021

Domaine Jean-Michel Gerin is a family estate in Côte-Rôtie, now run by Michaël and Alexis Gerin after three generations on the same steep slopes of the northern Rhône. Champin Le Seigneur is the estate's approachable Côte-Rôtie, drawn from several parcels of Syrah across the appellation, on the granite and schist soils of these terraced hillsides. The vineyards are organically farmed. The steep, south facing terraces ripen the late maturing Syrah fully, while the continental climate and the cooling air from the river keep the acidity fresh and the aromatics defined. The wine is aged twenty-two months in oak barrels, a slow raising that softens the firm tannins through gentle oxygen exchange and adds spice and depth while the dark fruit stays in focus. It is deep ruby, with a nose of ripe plum, blackberry, cracked black pepper, smoke, olive and violet. The palate is full bodied yet supple, with ripe dark fruit, fine firm tannins, a savoury, peppery core and a long, mineral finish. It drinks well now and will keep. Serve at 17 to 18 degrees in a large glass, decanting if young. It suits roast and grilled red meats and game.