Delas Freres Cote Rotie La Landonne 2015  £185.00

Delas Freres Cote Rotie La Landonne 2015

Delas Frères grows 30 hectares of vines comprising 10 hectares in the Hermitage AOC, 2 hectares in Saint-Joseph AOC and 18 hectares in Crozes-Hermitage. 

In addition to the grapes produced by Delas' own wine growing team, Delas' close relationships with like-minded owner-wine growers ensure that the company is able to source grapes grown on individual parcels, which reflect their own unique terroir.

This AOC lies in the far north of the Rhône Valley. The highly rated "La Landonne" (100% Syrah), produced here by Delas Frères, is a single vineyard selection that produces just 2,500 bottles per vintage and only in the very best years.

This cuvée is a vineyard plot selection. The grapes come exclusively from a plot within the named slope of "La Landonne". This cuvée's first vintage was 1997. 

The grapes used in the "La Landonne" cuvée are only picked by hand at maximum maturity. The fermentation takes place in traditional open-topped concrete tanks, after three days of cold maceration. Before fermentation, the maceration process is conducted under controlled temperatures of 82°F to 86°F (28°C to 30°C). Daily cap pushing down and pumping over are carried out for about 10 days. The total vatting time can be up to 20 days.

The wine is aged for 14 to 16 months in new or one year old oak casks. The barrels are topped up regularly.

The wine's deep colour is underscored by plummy hues. A complex nose shows deep, fruity aromas with hints of liquorice and roasted coffee. Endowed with a dense and silky tannic structure, this is a full, fleshy wine that provides an ample and generous palate. Its lasting finish speaks of considerable ageing potential.

Fine meats, roasted beef, water games, truffles, spicy stews. The bottle should be opened 1 to 3 hours before drinking. This wine needs at least 3 years cellaring before it can open up its complexity. In such case it is strongly recommended to decant before serving.