Olivier Merlin, Saint Veran Cote Rotie

Olivier Merlin, Saint Veran Cote RotieRipe, fresh and layered aromas consist of citrus confit, petrol and a pretty mix of mostly white orchard fruit that is nuanced by anise and oak toast hints. The exceptionally rich medium bodied flavors possess solid mid palate density as well as slightly better complexity on the lingering finish. This is sufficiently interesting to merit your attention.

The wine needs a few more years to get out of this more reticent phase

The finer and sleeker but not richer middle weight flavors possess a beguiling texture that carries over to the citrusy

"We don't use much whole cluster anymore

both of which showed signs of past seepage

the medium garnet-purple colored 2018 Clos la Madeleine starts off just a little broody

tidal pool and soft pear scents

eleven years after the harvest

This is the haute couture of the vertical

Oak is a touch more evident than in most years because the fruit is not at full ripeness

intense and very well-detailed

Moderate wood sets off the ripe and fresh if restrained aromas of soft earth

yet the balance is impeccable