At a glance

Producer

E. Guigal

Region

Côte-Rôtie, Northern Rhône, France

Grape variety

Syrah

Wine type

Red

Body

Full-bodied and Bold

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

$300 - $400

Tasting profile

Black fruit (blackberry, blackcurrant), smoked meat, pepper, graphite, and floral notes dominate with underlying oak and spice.

Evolution: Will develop more savory and leather notes, tertiary aromas of earth, truffle, and forest floor with extended aging.

At peak: Balanced intense fruit and complex earthy minerality with velvety tannins and lingering finish.

Structure

Acidity

High, providing freshness and longevity

Tannins

Firm, well-structured and gripping

Alcohol

Approximately 13.5 - 14.0%

Aging potential

30-40+ years, especially given the vintage and producer reputation

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2030 to 2053

Optimal window

2025 to 2056

Current status

Approaching Early Maturity

Current condition

The wine is developing complex tertiary flavors but still retains youthfulness. Some tannins remain firm but approachable with aeration.

E. Guigal's La Landonne is a single vineyard, top-tier Côte-Rôtie syrah with dense tannins and high acidity that supports very long aging. The 2016 vintage is outstanding due to excellent growing conditions, boosting the wine's longevity and complexity over three decades.

Food pairing

Roasted lamb, game meats, rich stews, and dishes with black pepper or smoky seasoning. Strong-flavored cheese also pairs well.

Serving

Serving temperature

16-18°C / 61-64°F

Decant

Yes (1-2 hours) — To soften tannins and open complex aromatics

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 7/10

Use of integrated pest management, water conservation techniques, energy-efficient winery equipment, and minimal intervention in winemaking.

E. Guigal, as a major producer, has made steady progress in sustainable farming practices despite not having formal organic or biodynamic certification. Their vineyard management prioritizes soil health and resource conservation, contributing to a better environmental profile. Packaging choices and transportation logistics also balance quality and carbon footprint considerations.