(96-99 points) Marked by hints of mint and herbal tea on the nose, the 2018 Cote Rotie Cote Brune is another terrific effort from this parcel of vines that was replanted in 2000. Raspberries and blueberries surge forward on the medium to full-bodied palate, building in richness and complexity on the firm, palate-coating finish. - JC

Inky violet color. A deeply perfumed, mineral-tinged bouquet displays aromas of ripe dark berries, cherry liqueur, exotic spices and incense, which are complemented by building floral, smoky bacon and olive notes. Palate-staining blackberry, cassis, fruitcake, licorice and succulent herb flavors show excellent depth and become sweeter and more energetic as the wine slowly stretches out. The spice and floral qualities repeat emphatically on the mineral-driven finish, which hangs on with superb tenacity and mounting tannins. -- Josh Raynolds

This is just beginning to reveal its classic rose and dried flower aromas but is tightly coiled. There’s a lovely sense of density, but it's only a medium-bodied wine, despite the vintage. It has good acidity and sense of freshness and is particularly well balanced for 2018. Very long, with very fine, silky tannins and a long finish. A wine with great personality, great balance and classicism. The winemaking at Domaine Rostaing is now in the hands of René's son Pierre, and it follows the same format for all the Côte-Rôties: four weeks in tank, 18 months in oak, limited new oak, natural yeasts, and as many stems as possible. Drinking Window 2026 - 2042

(95-97 points) The 2018 Côte Rôtie Côte Brune is more bloody and meaty, with a dense, powerful, concentrated style. It has a distinct iron character as well as classic Côte Rôtie spice and dried flowers. It’s certainly another masculine, concentrated, age-worthy wine from this team.