# Château D'Ampuis (2016)

- **Producer:** E. Guigal
- **Colour:** red
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Syrah, Viognier
- **Region:** Rhône Valley, France
- **Style:** Classic
- **Alcohol:** 13.5%
- **Average price:** €150
- **Contains sulphites:** No
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 16–18 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** black plum, black cherry, liquorice, blackcurrant, black pepper, vanilla, cedar, cloves, smoke, leather, forest floor, tobacco, earth

## About this wine

Côte Rôtie Château D'Ampuis 2016 by E. Guigal is a distinguished red wine from the Northern Rhône Valley, France. It is primarily composed of Syrah (93%) with a small addition of Viognier (7%), cultivated under the AOC Côte-Rôtie appellation. The grapes are sourced from seven of the domain's most exceptional plots, featuring very old vines, some planted as early as the 16th century. The wine is named after the historic Château d'Ampuis, which also serves as Maison Guigal's headquarters, a testament to the producer's deep connection to the estate and its heritage.

## Interesting facts

- Vines at Château d'Ampuis are incredibly old, some dating back to the 16th century.
- The wine is named after the historic Château d'Ampuis, which is also Maison Guigal's headquarters.
- The average vine age for this cuvée is around 50 years.
- Production is limited to approximately 30,000 bottles annually.

## Food pairing

The wine's full body and polished tannins are well-suited to complement the richness and protein of red meats, creating a balanced and satisfying experience. The wine's inherent complexity and savory notes can echo the earthy flavors of game and mushrooms, while its fruit profile can stand up to and cut through richer sauces.

## Wine making process

The winemaking process for Côte Rôtie Château D'Ampuis 2016 begins with fermentation in closed stainless steel tanks under controlled temperatures, followed by a maceration period of four weeks. The wine then undergoes an extensive aging process of 38 months, exclusively in new French oak barrels. These barrels are crafted at the estate's own cooperage, highlighting a commitment to controlling every aspect of the winemaking journey. The average yield for this cuvée is 36 hl/hectare, and approximately 30,000 bottles are produced annually.