Domaine Rostaing -- 'Les Lézardes' Syrah

“René Rostaing is one of Côte Rôtie’s most masterful growers.”

- Robert Parker

I’ve long adored Rhône reds, as a fledgling wine student does (Côtes du Rhône is just so accessible!). Though it’s hard to know if the CdRs are a primer or a tease, because this Syrah is actually where it’s at. We’ve arrived!

René Rostaing began making wine in 1971 under the guidance of his uncle, Marius Gentaz. His marriage brought vineyard inheritances from another Rhône legend – his father-in-law, Albert Dervieux – expanding both his holdings and his reputation, and by 1991 he was making wine full-time. Rostaing’s style stays true to tradition: whole-cluster fermentation, neutral oak, and a focus on site expression. In 2015, his son Pierre stepped in, keeping the core philosophy but adding a lighter, more modern touch.

Grapes: Syrah 100%

Region: Collines Rhodaniennes, Rhône Valley, France

Good To Know: Vineyard plots along the Côte Rôtie border, hand harvested, 20 days on skins, ambient yeast ferment, aged in 600 liter neutral oak (only 7% new)