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.

This wine is named for the historic Chateau d’Ampuis estate which the Guigal family acquired in 1995. It is produced from 7 exceptional terroirs where vine age averages 50 years, showcasing the best that Cote-Rotie has to offer. The wine is a blend of 93% Syrah and 7% Viognier, aged for 38 months in new oak.

The 2018 Guigal Cote Rotie Chateau d'Ampuis is a captivating red wine hailing from the renowned Cote Rotie appellation in the Northern Rhone region of France. With its deep ruby/purple hue, this wine is a true gem that is set to hit the market in November of 2023. Crafted primarily from the Syrah grape variety, this wine showcases the exceptional quality and character of the Cote Rotie terroir.

On the nose, the 2018 Chateau d'Ampuis entices with a symphony of aromas. Notes of smoked game, violets, acacia flowers, and a medley of red and black fruits intertwine, creating a complex and alluring bouquet. This wine exhibits the softer style of the vintage, offering immediate pleasure while still possessing the potential for long-term aging.

Medium to full-bodied, the palate of this Cote Rotie is a harmonious blend of elegance and power. Polished, seamless tannins caress the tongue, while a perfectly balanced mouthfeel adds depth and complexity to the wine. The concentration of fruit is remarkable, with flavors of blackberries and blueberries taking the spotlight. Subtle nuances of mocha and brown sugar emerge on the long, silky finish.

Renowned wine critics have also bestowed high praise upon this exceptional wine. Jeb Dunnuck awarded it an impressive 97 points, describing it as a "remarkable Cote Rotie." Robert Parker's Wine Advocate awarded it 95+ points, noting its smoky and complex profile. James Suckling rated it 96 points, highlighting its concentration and elegance. Wine Spectator awarded it 94 points, praising its density and formidable tannins. Vinous also recognized its excellence with a score of 96 points, noting its expansive fruit and long, sweet finish.

The 2018 Guigal Cote Rotie Chateau d'Ampuis is a wine that truly captures the essence of Cote Rotie. With its exceptional quality and aging potential, this wine is a must-have for any serious wine collector or enthusiast. Whether enjoyed now or cellared for future enjoyment, this Cote Rotie masterpiece is sure to impress.