Guigal is the most famous producer in Côte Rôtie and one of the finest in the Rhône Valley. Founded in 1946 by Etienne Guigal, following his departure from Vidal-Fleury, where he had worked for just under twenty years. His son, Marcel, joined the company in 1961 and is now the head of the company.
Guigal pioneered the notion of single vineyard Côte Rôties and his 3 most famous wines, La Landonne, La Mouline and La Turque are amongst the most sought after wines in the world today.
Marcel Guigal’s attitude to winemaking is typical of the simple genius that one seems to stumble upon when looking at any of the world’s greatest winemakers – low yields, organic viticulture and little or no intervention in the cellars – in short, a respect for nature and a passion for the wine itself.
"As to three single parcel releases, I reviewed the 2010 Cote Rotie La Mouline earlier this year, but was more than happy to taste it again (lucky me) for this report. Incorporating a full 11% of Viognier and coming from the steep, terraced vines in the Cote Blonde lieu-dit, it sports a heavenly bouquet of spring flowers, incense, violets, cured meats and sweet cassis. Full-bodied, voluptuous and as seamless as they come, Syrah just doesn’t get any more alluring, sexy or impressive. Give it 5-6 years and drink bottles over the following 2 decades or more." - 100 Points, Wine Advocate
"This smolders from the start, with Turkish coffee and warm ganache notes out front, backed by steeped currant, warmed fig and Black Forest cake flavors. The well-structured finish is layered with charcoal and mesquite notes, revealing bay leaf and chestnut details in the background. Offers terrific density, cut and range. Drapes like velvet despite the heft and structure. *Collectible*" - 99 Points, Wine Spectator
