Domaine Stéphane Ogier - La Rosine 2022
The Domaine Stéphane Ogier, located in Ampuis in the heart of northern Rhône, has established itself as one of the most sought-after names in the region thanks to a highly precise parcel-based approach. Heir to a long line of winemakers, Stéphane Ogier has patiently expanded his vineyard to express the diversity of the hillsides adjoining the prestigious appellations Côte Rôtie, Saint Joseph, and Condrieu. The approach, inspired by the greatest Burgundy estates, consists of considering each parcel as an entity in its own right, with its exposure, altitude, and soil. La Rosine fits within this philosophy by showcasing Syrah vines planted on the granite hills near Ampuis, under the IGP Collines Rhodaniennes status, allowing for greater stylistic freedom. The vineyard work is demanding, with moderate yields and constant attention to the phenolic ripeness of the grapes. The result is a haute couture red that offers the DNA of the great northern Rhône Syrahs in a more immediate and seductive version.
La Rosine 2022 is made exclusively from Syrah grown on granite soils located on the Semons hillside, south of the village of Ampuis, near the slopes of Côte Rôtie. The 2022 vintage, sunny but remarkably controlled, allowed for achieved ripeness while preserving the energy and freshness essential to the wine's balance. The vines, aged about fifteen to thirty years, produce concentrated grapes with small berries rich in color and tannins. The harvest is entirely manual, with rigorous sorting in the vineyard to keep only the finest fruit. Fermentation takes place in small stainless steel tanks, with measured pump-overs to gently extract color, aromas, and structure without harshness or over-extraction. Aging then continues in barrels that previously held the estate's great cuvées, adding complexity, polish, and a subtle woody touch without overpowering the fruit. La Rosine 2022 thus stands as a true entry point into Ogier's Syrah universe, with a particularly remarkable pleasure-to-price ratio.
On the palate, La Rosine 2022 presents a deep ruby robe with violet reflections, reflecting its youth and concentration. The nose is immediately expressive, blending ripe black and red fruits—blackberry, blackcurrant, and raspberry—with floral notes of violet and peony, punctuated by hints of black pepper, sweet spices, and a fine smoky imprint typical of northern Rhône Syrah. On the palate, the attack is juicy and generous, driven by crunchy fruit that coats the palate with generosity. The texture is supple yet serious, with fine, crunchy tannins that structure the wine without ever hardening it. A mineral freshness in the background adds relief and lengthens the finish, giving an impression of exemplary balance and drinkability. The finish, long and salivating, returns to spices, pepper, black fruits, and a slight saline note that invites another sip. La Rosine 2022 will be an ideal companion to grilled or roasted meats, such as a rib steak, duck breast with green peppercorns, or caramelized pork ribs, but also to bistro dishes like beef tartare, a gourmet pizza, or a gourmet burger. It also pairs very well with a sauté of mushrooms, herb-roasted poultry, or soft cheeses and young tommes, where its freshness and spicy fruitiness shine.
Grape variety: 100% Syrah
