2013 E. Guigal Chateau d'Ampuis Cote Rotie, Rhone, France (1.5L MAGNUM)

WINEMAKER'S NOTES: Deep dark color with mauve tints. Spices, black fruits and delicate oak aromas. A dense, expressive and intense nose. A tannic and racy wine. Aromas of prunes, blackberry and vanilla. Powerful, concentrated and structured palate. A wine from a tannic and muscular vintage due to the hot climate. Solid tannins, well rounded by long oak aging. Blend: 93% Syrah, 7% Viognier TASTING NOTES: As expected, the 2013 Cote Rotie Château d’Ampuis is a more austere, firm and structured wine than either the 2011 or 2012, yet I still feel it’s a hidden gem in the vintage given its fabulous concentration and sweet tannin. Its inky purple color is followed by serious notes of cassis, graphite, crushed rock and cracked pepper. Medium to full-bodied, with fabulous purity, high, yet integrated acidity and a big finish. - Robert Parker's Wine Advocate, 96 pts.  Solidly built, with a compact core of steeped currant and plum fruit flavors liberally laced with singed alder, leather and tar n