The 2014 vintage presents a particularly interesting face of La Landonne, shaped by a cool year and sometimes difficult weather conditions in the northern Rhône. After a summer marked by alternating rain and dry periods, the return of more favorable conditions at the end of August and in September allowed the grapes to reach maturity. Low yields and rigorous selection helped preserve the characteristic concentration of this parcel while maintaining the freshness typical of the vintage. The grapes are vinified as whole clusters, with continuous pump-overs and a maceration of about four weeks, allowing a gradual extraction of aromatic compounds and tannins. The wine then benefits from forty months of aging in new oak barrels, made in the house cooperage in Ampuis. This long time in wood supports the particularly assertive structure of the Syrah and allows it to gradually develop its complexity. The result combines the usual depth of La Landonne with a fresher and more nuanced expression than that of sun-drenched vintages.
The dark robe, almost black in its youth, precedes an intense bouquet of blackcurrant, blackberry, and black cherry, crossed with notes of pepper, licorice, and graphite. Aeration reveals smoky, tobacco, leather, and crushed stone nuances, highlighting the character of the Côte Brune. On the palate, the wine maintains remarkable density for the vintage, with tight matter and firm tannins that outline a precise architecture. Its acidity brings a particularly appreciated tension, avoiding any sensation of heaviness and prolonging the expression of black fruits. The persistent and spicy finish leaves an impression of depth, with smoky accents and freshness that favors its evolution in the bottle. Already accessible after proper aeration, La Landonne 2014 still has significant aging potential, during which its structure should gradually soften. A hare à la royale, roasted pigeon, venison fillet, or a matured rib of beef will accompany its power, while sautéed porcini mushrooms will echo its earthy nuances.
Grape variety: 100% Syrah
