2000 Cote Rotie la Landonne
By Delas Freres
2000 Cote Rotie la Landonne from Delas Freres, Rhone
The turn of the millennia graced the Rhone region with a befitting masterpiece - the 2000 Cote Rotie la Landonne from Delas Freres. An emblematic display of viticulture savoir-faire, Delas Freres once again proved their mastery and dedication to the craft, channeling the essence of the Rhone in this exceptional vintage.
Savvy investment opportunities for palates and portfolios alike
An intriguing ensemble that intrigues both fine wine investors and seasoned oenophiles alike, the 2000 vintage sets itself apart with its distinguished desirable characteristics. Decidedly lush and dense on the nose, the bouquet carries an intoxicating weave of blackberry, smoked meat, and earthy undertones - a tantalizing herald of the symphony to follow.
The backdrop to this was a gloriously consistent growing season, which resulted in a good haul of perfectly matured Syrah grapes. The agreeable climate played a pivotal role in sculpting this distinctive vintage's character.
A snapshot of time held in every glass
On the palate, you're greeted with ripe and dense fruit expressions featuring blackberry and cassis, laced with elements of amortized leather and lingering notes of truffle. The ripeness from this exceptional year offering a pleasing sweetness balanced beautifully by tannins that have mellowed gracefully over time.
Rhone's 2000 season has proven to be one of much acclaim by those who appreciate good wine turned better with patience. In many respects, the 2000 Cote Rotie la Landonne is representative of such investable wines that offer immeasurable satisfaction on maturation.
The enduring appeal of the 2000 Cote Rotie, encapsulating Delas Freres' meticulous cultivation and winemaking prowess, minted this particular vintage a worthy consideration for both wine connoisseurs and serious investors.
Looking back at Delas Freres' 2000 Cote Rotie la Landonne, one can't help but appreciate the symphony of factors that played in harmony to create such an admirable expression of Rhone's unmistakable terroir. Truly a testament to the brand's capability, this vintage stands as an eloquent statement of its time.
Market price (USD)
$4,680.00
12x75cl
Highest score
88
POP score
480
Scores and tasting notes
The 2000 Cote Rotie La Londonne possesses a deep ruby/purple color in addition to complex aromatics of earth, flowers, black currant fruit, and new oak. Some of the vintage's hollowness emerges in the mid-palate, but the finish is well-balanced with sweet tannin, ripe fruit, and low acidity. However, this is not the type of vintage where the wines eventually fill out as yields were too high. Anticipated maturity: 2004-2014. Beginning with the 1997 vintage, this firm has made remarkable progress with their Cote Rotie program. The cuvaison lasts twenty days, and Jacques Granges believes in several pigeages (punching down) a day, with pump overs as well. This is a good commercial example. The significant difference in quality between the outstanding 1999 northern Rhone vintage and the above average yet essentially correct 2000 is dramatically evidenced in Delas's wines. The 2000 red offerings reveal charming ripeness, but also the vintage's softness, lightness, and lack of depth. Importer: Maison Marques et Domaines, Oakland, CA; tel. (510) 286-2000.
Robert Parker Jr - The Wine Advocate, 29 April 2002