Color
The wine shows a rich purple colour with a violet rim and an opaque core, clear and shiny in the glass.
Nose
On the nose, this cuvée of Syrah, Serine and Viognier transforms from dark berry fruit to sedate spice. Blueberry and cranberry shine at first, along with a thick, dark plum jam. The soft fruit is underpinned by savory notes of beetroot and tomato paste, as well as dry autumn leaves, pipe tobacco and smouldering charcoal. Subtle memories of past Advent are awakened by caramelized walnut and rum balls.
Palate
On the palate, the 2017 "Coteaux de Bassenon" from Maison Stephan is full-bodied, dense and meaty. The latter actually in the true sense, namely red, raw, juicy and pleasant, like a first-class dressed beef tartare. It wears its tannins as a protective mesh shirt to keep its deep dark spice in check. The wine's restrained acidity gives the powerhouse an outlet of balance and, not just on cold days, inevitably increases its drinkability. On the other hand, this classic Côte-Rotie shows a haunting character of its own and is happy to serve hearty rustic fare on the table.
Food recommendations from Peter Müller
- Red cabbage from the oven with hazelnut crust, saffron butter and sage spaetzle
- Leg of goose with braised savoy cabbage and bacon potatoes
- Roast lamb shoulder with Jerusalem artichoke gratin and spinach leaves
| Winemaker | Maison Stephan |
|---|---|
| Country | France |
| Region | Rhône |
| Type | |
| Vintage | |
| Variety | |
| Content | |
| Allergens | Contains sulfur |
| Alcohol content | |
| Residual sweetness | ■□□□□ |
| Acid | 4,7 g/l |
| Drinking temperature | 18° |
| Manufacturer | Jean-Michel Stephan, 1 ancienne route de Semons, 69420 Tupin-et-Semons / France |
