Domaine Rostaing Les Lézardes Rouge 2021

Domaine Rostaing, based in Ampuis and led by René Rostaing with his son Pierre, makes this Syrah from younger vines and outlying plots classified as IGP Collines Rhodaniennes, the granite hillsides that surround the Côte-Rôtie appellation. The soils are broadly similar to the cru sites, based on decomposed granite and schist, which suits Syrah and gives a peppery, mineral character, though the wine is built for earlier drinking than the estate's Côte-Rôtie bottlings. Farming follows the same respectful approach used across the domaine. Ageing takes place in seasoned oak rather than new barrels, so the emphasis stays on fruit and freshness while the wood rounds the tannin through gentle oxygen contact. The wine is bright ruby, with raspberry, blackcurrant and cracked black pepper over dried thyme and a touch of smoke. The palate is medium-bodied, with supple tannin, fresh acidity and a clean, savoury finish. This is a Northern Rhône Syrah at an approachable weight rather than a long cellar wine. Serve at 15 to 16 degrees, in a standard red glass, with no need to decant. It works with grilled pork, roast chicken and everyday beef dishes.