Guigal Côte-Rôtie Château d'Ampuis 2009

96+ points Jeb Dunnuck (Wine Advocate): "A behemoth that satisfies on all accounts, the 2009 Cote Rotie Chateau d’Ampuis (93% Syrah and 7% Viognier) got a big 'Wow!' in my notes. Deep, rich and incredibly layered, with massive Syrah fruit, bacon fat, espresso roast, licorice and chocolate, as well as a striking minerality that emerges with time in the glass, this full-bodied, dense and superbly concentrated 2009 should be given another handful of years in the cellar, and consumed over the following two decades. (Dec 2013)"

96 points Wine Spectator: "[$210 list] A broad, muscular style, with a distinctive mix of roasted mesquite and apple wood out front, followed by lush raspberry confiture, crushed plum and blackberry fruit flavors. There’s ample depth, with smoldering tobacco, juniper and mocha all mixed on the finish. Relies primarily on bass and pumps along nicely. Best from 2015 through 2035. (10/31/13)"

94 points and '100 Best Wines of the Year,' Wine & Spirits: "[$210 list] Guigal's Château d'Ampuis is a blend pulled from seven lieux-dits in Côte Rôtie, including La Virea, the steepest vineyard in the area, each vinified and aged separately, spending 36 months in oak. The 2009 handles that much oak with aplomb, wrapping it into a density of gamey, savory fruit. The acidity and ferrous tannins keep it energized, the tonal spread of the wine spanning several octaves. Refined and sophisticated, it's a wine for the ages. (Feb 2014)"

94 points Falstaff Guide.

93 points Josh Raynolds (International Wine Cellar): "Inky purple. Powerful, deeply pitched aromas of singed plum, blackberry, licorice pastille and Indian spices, with an accent of candied flowers. Supple, broad and sweet , displaying intense black and blue fruit, licorice and cracked pepper flavors. The floral element comes back strong on the finish, which is firmed by smooth, slow-building tannins. Shows the power of the vintage to full effect but comes off as surprisingly energetic and fresh. (Mar/Apr 2014)"