Description
The 2008 Chapoutier Côte-Rôtie Les Bécasses represents a vintage that is often described as challenging, but capable of producing elegant and nuanced wines when handled with care. M. Chapoutier's commitment to quality ensures that this wine reflects the best of what the vintage had to offer.
Vintage Overview
2008 Rhône Vintage: A cooler and wetter year, particularly during the growing season, which required diligent vineyard management to combat disease and ensure proper ripening. Producers who meticulously managed their vineyards produced wines with finesse, higher acidity, and moderate alcohol levels.
Côte-Rôtie in 2008: The wines from this vintage are more restrained and delicate, offering freshness, purity of fruit, and lower tannic intensity compared to warmer years. These wines tend to emphasize elegance over power.
Tasting Profile of 2008 Chapoutier Les Bécasses
Appearance: Medium ruby with garnet hues, showing signs of evolution as it ages.
Aromas: Expect a subtle bouquet of red fruits like cherry and cranberry, along with floral notes of violet and a touch of black pepper. Secondary aromas of leather, dried herbs, and a hint of smoky bacon or earthiness may emerge with maturity.
Palate: Medium-bodied with vibrant acidity and fine-grained tannins. Flavors may include red currant, raspberry, and subtle spice, with savory notes of olive tapenade, smoked meat, and a touch of minerality. The finish is likely refined and moderate in length.
Aging Potential: By 2025, this wine is likely at its peak, offering well-integrated tertiary notes alongside a core of freshness. While not as long-lived as wines from stronger vintages, it should still provide a charming and satisfying drinking experience.
Food Pairing Suggestions
Meat Pairings: Roasted chicken with thyme, pork tenderloin with a mustard glaze, or grilled duck breast with a cherry reduction.
Vegetarian Pairings: Ratatouille, mushroom and lentil stew, or roasted eggplant with tahini.
Cheese Pairing: Mildly aged goat cheese or creamy brie.
Decanting: A shorter decant (30–60 minutes) should suffice to open up the wine’s delicate aromas and flavors.
The 2008 Les Bécasses offers a lighter, more elegant expression of Côte-Rôtie, making it a wonderful choice for those who appreciate finesse and complexity over power. Perfect for pairing with refined dishes or enjoying on its own for its subtle charm.
Condition
Stained and bin soiled label