The 2021 Nicolas Champagneux Côte-Rôtie La Dédicace is a red wine from the Côte-Rôtie appellation in the northern Rhône Valley, France. This region is celebrated for its elegant and expressive Syrah-based wines, often co-fermented with a small percentage of Viognier to add floral complexity.
Vintage Overview
The 2021 vintage in the northern Rhône was marked by cool weather and lower yields due to challenging conditions, including frost and rain. However, it produced wines with finesse, fresh acidity, and vibrant fruit, making them more classic in style compared to riper, warmer vintages.
Tasting Notes
- Appearance: Deep ruby with purple highlights.
- Aroma: Aromatically complex, showcasing blackberries, blackcurrants, and raspberries, along with floral notes of violets (from Syrah and potentially Viognier). Subtle hints of smoked meat, black pepper, and herbs like thyme and rosemary add depth.
- Palate: Medium-bodied with refined tannins and a silky texture. Flavors of dark fruits, olive tapenade, and earthy minerality are balanced by bright acidity. Oak influence, if present, is likely restrained, with subtle notes of vanilla or cedar.
- Finish: Long and savory, with a lingering spiciness and mineral freshness.
Grape Composition
- Syrah: The dominant grape, responsible for structure, dark fruit, and spice.
- Viognier: If included, adds aromatic lift and floral elegance.
Food Pairing
- Classic Pairings: Grilled or roasted lamb, duck breast, or venison with berry sauce.
- Hearty Dishes: Beef stew, braised short ribs, or wild mushroom risotto.
- Cheese: Aged or soft cheeses, like Saint-Marcellin or Comté.
Serving Tips
- Temperature: Serve slightly cool at 16–18°C (60–64°F).
- Decanting: Recommended for 30–60 minutes to allow the wine’s aromas to open up.
- Aging Potential: While Côte-Rôtie wines are often age-worthy, the 2021 vintage’s style leans toward earlier drinking. This wine can be enjoyed now for its freshness or cellared for 5–10 years to develop additional complexity.
Specifications
Country | France |
Region | Rhone Valley |
Sub-Region | Cote Rotie |
Vintage | 2021 |
Grape | Syrah / Shiraz |
Volume | 750ml |
ABV | 13% |
Food Pairing | Lamb |
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