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 2015 Guigal Cote Rotie la Turque is a remarkable wine that showcases the epitome of Syrah from the Northern Rhone region of France. With its deep, dark red color and a cork closure, this wine exudes elegance and sophistication from the moment you lay eyes on it.

On the nose, this wine reveals an intoxicating array of aromas. Notes of crushed violets, spring flowers, vanilla bean, and cured meats greet you, creating a sensory experience that is both enticing and complex. As you delve deeper into the bouquet, hints of cherry liqueur, espresso, kirsch, and pepper emerge, adding depth and intrigue.

Upon the first sip, the full-bodied nature of this wine becomes apparent. The palate is met with a rich and opulent texture that is balanced by a sublime sense of freshness. Flavors of dark plum, boysenberry, and fig are intertwined with nuances of anise, black tea, and roasted apple wood, creating a harmonious blend of sweet and savory elements. The wine's power and density are palpable, with a finish that lingers on the palate long after the last sip.

Renowned wine critics have sung praises for this exceptional vintage. Robert Parker's Wine Advocate describes it as slightly closed but predicts it will reach perfection with age. Jeb Dunnuck awards it a perfect score, proclaiming it as a wine that doesn't get any better. James Suckling highlights its expressive aromas and intense blackberry core, while Vinous praises its concentrated fruit flavors and long, floral-dominated finish.

The 2015 Guigal Cote Rotie la Turque is a masterpiece that demands attention and admiration. With its impeccable balance, depth of flavor, and potential for aging, it is a wine that will continue to evolve and captivate for decades to come.