2022 René Rostaing Côte-Rôtie Cuvee Reserve La Vialliere, Northern Rhone

Prominent violet, black cherry, blueberry, cedar and black cherry aromas are neatly captured in the 2022 Côte Rôtie La Viaillère. Built around a massive tannic structure, the concentrated and medium-bodied 2022 is a wine of substance, pedigree and class. Polished and round, this is shaping up to be a stellar Côte-Rôtie. Readers should note that no 2021 was produced due to spring frost. Drink: 2027-2040

93-96 points, Nicolas Greinacher vinous.com 

René Rostaing Côte-Rôtie Cuvée Reserve La Viallière is an exquisite expression of Northern Rhône Syrah, sourced from the steep, terraced vineyards of the famed La Viallière lieu-dit. Crafted by René Rostaing, one of Côte-Rôtie's most respected winemakers, this wine reflects both the power and elegance that define the region. The iron-rich schist soils and meticulous vineyard work create a Syrah of remarkable depth, complexity, and structure.

In the glass, it presents a deep, almost opaque purple hue with garnet highlights. The nose is intensely aromatic, offering layers of blackberries, dark cherries, and ripe plums, intertwined with floral notes of violet and crushed rose petals. Subtle hints of black pepper, smoked meat, and dried herbs add savoury complexity, while a touch of graphite and earthiness speaks to the wine’s terroir.

On the palate, the Cuvée Reserve La Viallière is full-bodied yet finely structured. Juicy dark fruit flavors—blackcurrant, mulberry, and black cherry—are supported by firm, polished tannins and vibrant acidity. Notes of olive tapenade, cracked pepper, and a whisper of vanilla from restrained oak aging add further depth. The finish is long, savoury, and mineral-driven, leaving lingering impressions of spice, dark fruit, and crushed rock.

This Côte-Rôtie is a perfect match for grilled lamb, braised short ribs, or roasted duck. It also complements hard cheeses and earthy mushroom dishes. While approachable now with a short decant, it has the structure to evolve beautifully over 10–20 years, gaining further complexity while retaining its vibrant core.

René Rostaing’s Côte-Rôtie Cuvée Reserve La Viallière is a true testament to the heights Northern Rhône Syrah can reach—powerful, elegant, and unmistakably terroir-driven.