The Guigal Estate was founded in 1946 by Etienne Guigal in Ampuis, a small ancient village and cradle of the Cote-Rotie appellation. It shelters a unique vineyard where the vines and the wines have been famous for 2,400 years. Arriving in the region in 1924 at the age of 14, Etienne began his career at Vidal-Fleury, participating in its development and working his way up to the position of cellar-master before leaving to establish his own company. He has vinified 67 harvests in Cote-Rotie.

In 1961, although still very young, Marcel Guigal took over management of the establishment from his father who was stricken suddenly with total blindness. In 1973, his wife Bernadette joined him and they worked together to develop the family business. In 1975, their son Philippe was born and is today the estate’s winemaker. With his wife Eve, he represents the third generation to continue the family business, in the service of the great wines of the Rhone Valley.

Their hard work and perseverance enabled them to purchase the Vidal-Fleury Establishment in the mid ‘80s and in 1995, they acquired the famous Chateau d’Ampuis, an ancient fort built in the 12th century, later repurposed into a Renaissance chateau during the 16th century. In a state of neglect and terrible disrepair, Guigal has taken on a colossal renovation, spanning nearly 11 years with over 100 people working on the project.

The Chateau d’Ampuis has become the headquarters of the Guigal Estate while the offices and the cellars remain in the ancient small village of Ampuis. While their vineyards span the length and breadth of what the Rhone Valley offers, the heart of the winery’s production is still Cote-Rotie, whose ultimate expression can be found in Guigal’s most famous releases: La Landonne, La Turque, and La Mouline.

The 2013 Guigal Cote Rotie la Mouline is a true gem from the Rhone region of France. This red wine, made from the Syrah grape varietal, showcases the exceptional quality and craftsmanship of Guigal, a renowned producer in the Northern Rhone. With a beautiful deep red color, this wine is a feast for the eyes as well as the palate.

On the nose, the 2013 Guigal Cote Rotie la Mouline offers a captivating bouquet of dark plums, figs, and boysenberries. These ripe fruit aromas are layered with enticing notes of licorice snap, roasted apple wood, and Turkish coffee, creating a complex and alluring profile.

Upon tasting, this wine reveals its true character. The palate is greeted with a velvety texture and a wave of smooth, sweeping tannins that provide a plush and luxurious mouthfeel. The flavors of blood plum and creamy espresso dance on the palate, offering a harmonious blend of sweetness and richness. The finish is long and satisfying, leaving a lasting impression.

Critics have showered the 2013 Guigal Cote Rotie la Mouline with high praise. Wine Spectator awarded it an impressive score of 96, noting its layers of ripe fruit and drive on the finish. James Suckling also lauds this wine, awarding it an outstanding score of 97 and describing its array of sweet-smelling spices and smooth tannins.

Robert Parker's Wine Advocate praises the 2013 Guigal Cote Rotie la Mouline for its crisp black fruit, espresso notes, and suave, long finish. Jeb Dunnuck also recognizes its complexity, concentration, and sweet tannins, giving it a score of 94+.

This wine has great aging potential and is best enjoyed from 2020 through 2040. However, it can also be enjoyed now for those who appreciate its current elegance. The 2013 Guigal Cote Rotie la Mouline is a true masterpiece that will captivate wine enthusiasts and leave them longing for more.