E. GUIGAL Cote Rotie Rouge 'La Mouline' 2014 Bottle

Description

IN BRIEF
E. Guigal Cote Rotie La Mouline 2014 is a prestigious wine that showcases the rich heritage of the Guigal estate, renowned for its exceptional quality since 1946. This iconic vineyard, with roots dating back to Roman times, produces a remarkable blend of 89% Syrah and 11% Viognier, aged for 42 months in new oak, which enhances its complexity. The wine presents an enticing nose of floral aromas, rich black fruit, and earthy spice. On the palate, it offers a smooth, elegant mouthfeel and a long, lingering finish, beautifully balancing power and finesse. Rated 97 points by The Wine Advocate, 95 points by James Suckling, and 95 points by Vinous, La Mouline is a true collector's wine that promises an unforgettable tasting experience.

ABOUT THIS WINE
E. Guigal Cote Rotie La Mouline 2014 is a prestigious wine that encapsulates the rich history and exceptional quality of the Guigal estate. Renowned worldwide, Guigal has been a family-run business since its founding in 1946 by Etienne Guigal, who passionately committed to crafting fine wines in the ancient village of Ampuis. With a legacy that spans more than six decades, the estate has developed into a benchmark for quality in the Rhône Valley.

La Mouline is celebrated as the oldest and most iconic vineyard in Cote-Rotie, with its roots tracing back to Roman times, approximately 2,500 years ago. Guigal's decision to produce a single vineyard bottling of La Mouline in the 1960s marked a turning point in the region, sparking a quality revolution that elevated the status of Rhône wines. This stunning amphitheatre vineyard is distinguished by its steep slopes and diverse exposures, contributing to the complexity and character of the wines produced here.

The 2014 vintage of La Mouline is a remarkable blend of 89% Syrah and 11% Viognier, sourced from 75-year-old vines that impart depth and concentration. The wine undergoes an extensive ageing process, spending 42 months in new oak, which enhances its structure and adds layers of complexity.

Upon tasting, La Mouline reveals an extraordinary aromatic profile, featuring an exotic bouquet of lifted floral notes, rich black fruit, and earthy spice. Its coiled power is perfectly balanced; the wine delivers an irresistibly smooth mouthfeel and a seemingly endless finish, showcasing elegance and finesse.

As one of the three renowned “LaLas” produced by Guigal, La Mouline stands out as a true collector's wine, exemplifying the heights of Côte-Rôtie expression. Whether enjoyed on special occasions or cellared for future exploration, E. Guigal Cote Rotie La Mouline 2014 promises an unforgettable experience in the glass.

THE WINE ADVOCATE 97 points
Reviewed by: Joe Czerwinski
Drink Date: 2020 - 2035
Floral aromas accent sturdy notes of grilled meat and almost delicate notes of red berries in the open, approachable 2014 Cote Rotie La Mouline. Medium to full-bodied, it shows great purity and a supple, silky, classic feel. It's built more on elegance and complexity than power, with those floral, herbal notes leaving a long, silky impression on the finish.

JAMES SUCKLING 95 points
One of the more approachable of the “La La”, Côte-Rôtie trio. This has a wealth of wet stones, pepper and mixed, wild berries. Cedary oak frames the palate nicely with a super-dark core of rich plums. Sweet mocha laces the dark-plum and chocolate finish. Drink in 2022.

VINOUS 95 points
Glass-staining ruby. Lively, intensely perfumed aromas of red and blue fruit preserves, Moroccan spices, potpourri and incense are sharpened by a smoky mineral nuance. Juicy and pure on the palate, displaying seductively sweet boysenberry and cherry liqueur flavors along with hints of candied violet and spicecake. The floral and spice notes return emphatically on the extremely long, penetrating finish, which features velvety tannins and a hint of five-spice powder. - Josh Raynolds

JANCIS ROBINSON 18 points
Rich nose with spice and flattering appeal. Sweet start with masses of tannin and almost spicy leather notes. Only medium weight. Not a blockbuster. Neat finish. (JR)

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ABOUT E. GUIGAL
E. Guigal is a distinguished wine producer based in the Rhône Valley of France, celebrated for its exceptional quality and commitment to traditional winemaking. Founded in 1946 by Émile Guigal, the estate has established a formidable reputation, particularly for its outstanding wines from the Côte Rôtie and other prestigious regions within the Rhône Valley.

The winery is renowned for its mastery of both red and white wines, with a focus on the indigenous grape varieties of the region, including Syrah, Grenache, and Viognier. E. Guigal is particularly famous for its powerful and complex Côte Rôtie wines, which are often lauded for their rich fruit flavours, balance, and aging potential. The estate's signature “La La” series—comprising La Landonne, La Mouline, and La Turque—represents some of the finest expressions of Côte Rôtie, showcasing the specific terroirs of each vineyard and exemplifying the winery’s commitment to craftsmanship.

E. Guigal operates with a philosophy steeped in tradition, employing time-honoured techniques such as whole bunch fermentation and extended aging in oak barrels. This approach allows for a nuanced development of flavours and ensures that each wine reflects the unique characteristics of its source. The winery’s dedication to quality is evident across its entire range, from entry-level wines to rare, limited releases.

Under the stewardship of Marcel Guigal, Émile’s son, the winery has continued to thrive and expand its global reach, receiving numerous accolades and high ratings from critics and publications worldwide. This success has positioned E. Guigal as a benchmark for Rhône wines, making it a sought-after name among collectors and wine enthusiasts.

With a rich heritage, a commitment to excellence, and a passion for showcasing the unique terroir of the Rhône Valley, E. Guigal continues to be a leader in the wine industry, producing exceptional wines that embody the spirit of the region.