Our source in Côte Rôtie is the Domaine Bonnefond. The Wine Advocate calls Bonnefond’s wines “among the finest in the appellation,” and Vinous’s Josh Raynolds recently called them “as graceful a group of wines that I’ve ever sampled.”
We’ve written recently about their terrific Côte Rôties, which regularly gain high scores and praise from the international wine press. Today’s Bonnefond Syrah is a bit easier on the wallet — it’s not as profound, and won’t cellar nearly as well. But it’s as complex and polished as any $25 bottle we can think of.
Made just outside the Côte Rôtie appellation, the 2018 Syrah is true Northern Rhône Syrah: The nose is spiced and expressive, with notes of violets, blackberries, tapenade, black pepper, and game. The mouth is beautifully balanced — it’s smooth and long, with low alcohol and dense meaty notes joining plum fruits and graceful minerality.
This is dangerously drinkable wine — something you might enjoy in a Parisian bistro or a picnic by the Seine. It’s not something to cellar or to serve to visiting dignitaries, but it will wash down a hearty steak or wood fired pizza with style.
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Bonnefond Syrah 2018
bottle price: $25
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