M. Chapoutier : Quatuor 2017

Aged in demi-muids (20% new), the 2017 Cote Rotie Quatuor is a blend of four lieux-dits: Côte Blonde, Côte Brune, Neve and Coteaux du Tupin. Full-bodied and seductively rich and silky, it's nearly approachable, but it should be cellared another year or two. Notes of pencil shavings accent mixed red and blue fruit, while firm but silky tannins provide support and length on the palate.

Enticing, featuring plum and blackberry fruit, with anise accents, framed by a light bramble note. The finish picks up sweet tapenade and violet details. A hint of minerality peeks through at the very end. Best from 2022 through 2035. 19 cases imported.

Cedary oak and bright, light-red fruit with fresh red flowers, too. The palate has a very sleek, silky and plush feel with smooth red and purple-fruit flavors that build long, even and plush. Drink or hold.

Glass-staining ruby. Expressive aromas of ripe blackberry, cherry, licorice and olive show fine delineation and pick up a hint of peony as the wine stretches out. Juicy and energetic in style, offering juicy black and blue fruit flavors that are complemented by building spiciness. Shows noticeable weight on the broad, gently tannic finish, which leaves bitter cherry and floral notes behind. The fruit for this wine comes from vineyards in both the Côte Brune and the Côte Blonde.

From a blend of vineyards (Nieve, Côte Blonde, Tupin, and Côte Brune), the 2017 Côte Rôtie Quatuor reveals a darker plum/purple hue to go with more Côte Brune-like notes of black raspberries, crushed rocks, spice, and gamey, olive nuances. It's rich, powerful, full-bodied, and concentrated, yet has plenty of texture.

A lovely spicy range stands out over notes of macerated black fruits. The palate is well crafted, in a fairly refined style, with a hint of charcoal and smoked pork belly alongside licorice and incense. The wine shows lovely tannins supported by a fine acidity on the finish.