Domaine René Rostaing - Côte Rôtie - Ampodium 2023
Ampodium 2023 from Domaine René Rostaing wonderfully embodies the classic and precise style of Côte-Rôtie, in a cuvée made from a blend of many of the estate’s emblematic lieux-dits. The deep ruby color, with slight violet reflections, signals a wine that is both intense and refined. The nose opens with aromas of mixed black and red fruits, blackcurrant, blackberry, and raspberry, enhanced by notes of violet, pepper, and a very delicate smoky touch. On the palate, the attack is juicy and straightforward, with pure fruit supported by a linear freshness that immediately gives rhythm. The body is ample without heaviness, structured by fine tannins that create a tight yet silky grain. The finish, long and spicy, leaves an impression of precision and great clarity, with a slight floral return that marks the northern Syrah.
Upon aeration, Ampodium 2023 gains complexity and reveals nuances of licorice, graphite, dried rose, and black tapenade, enriching an already very expressive bouquet. The terroir of mica schists and gneiss appears in the uprightness and mineral tension that run through the wine from end to end. The vinification involves a measured proportion of whole cluster, bringing extra energy, aromatic relief, and freshness on the palate. The aging, precise and without excess new oak, polishes the texture and refines the tannins without ever masking the fruit or the terroir’s signature. The palate thus retains great clarity, with a remarkable balance between fruit maturity, freshness, and structure. The whole composes a noble red, serious but perfectly readable, already very appealing in its youth.
Ampodium 2023 positions itself as a benchmark Côte-Rôtie, both accessible and endowed with real aging potential. It will naturally find its place at the table alongside a pink duck breast, a grilled beef cut, herb-roasted lamb, or refined bistro cuisine. Its floral and spicy framework also allows it to pair with more subtle dishes such as pink veal, roasted poultry, or characterful plant-based cuisine centered around mushrooms and roasted vegetables. Young, it benefits from decanting to fully reveal its bouquet and soften its tannins. With a few years in the cellar, it will develop notes of fine leather, blond tobacco, light truffle, and dried flowers, while retaining its fresh backbone. This is a wine that faithfully expresses René Rostaing’s touch: finesse, accuracy, and depth rather than showiness.
Grape variety: Syrah
