The 2013 vintage brings a particularly interesting personality to La Mouline, marked by freshness and the slow ripening of the grapes. The climatic conditions of this late year favored a precise expression of Syrah, with controlled concentration and a tannic framework that gives the wine a fine aging potential. The blend consists of 89% Syrah and 11% Viognier, from very old vines with an average age approaching a century. Both grape varieties are harvested and vinified together, allowing the Viognier to fully participate in the aromatic construction of the wine. Fermentation takes place in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks, accompanied by traditional pump-overs and a prolonged maceration of about four to five weeks. La Mouline then continues its evolution for forty months in new oak barrels, a particularly long aging that supports its natural concentration. This maturation helps shape a enveloping texture without erasing the floral character and freshness typical of this Côte Blonde plot.
La Mouline 2013 shows a deep ruby color and a delicately evolved bouquet, where raspberry, blackberry, and black plum meet violet, sweet spices, and a touch of pepper. Aeration reveals more complex nuances of precious wood, undergrowth, coffee, and black fruits, while the floral character remains particularly expressive. The attack is soft, almost caressing, before unveiling a deep body and very fine tannins. The freshness of the vintage brings tension that perfectly balances the richness of the fruit and gives the whole a remarkable persistence. The finish lingers on spices, ripe fruits, and discreet smoky notes, with a surprisingly light sensation considering the wine's concentration. After more than a decade of aging, this Côte-Rôtie enters a favorable tasting period while retaining an evolution potential that justifies several more years in the cellar. Roast pigeon, morel chicken, stuffed quails, or veal fillet accompanied by mushrooms will particularly highlight its silky texture and aromatic subtlety.
Grape varieties: 89% Syrah, 11% Viognier
