Jean-Luc, Evelyne & Benoit: Grown in the Northern Rhone
Ever one of the finest Cote-Rotie domaines, the two brothers split their inheritance and Domaine Jamet became two in 2013. Jean-Luc Jamet and his family have gone from strength to strength in their winegrowing progress ever since. Jean-Luc had always run the vineyard side of the operation so the vines have been tip-top for many years, but the direction in the cellar has altered slightly to reveal more of the Cote-Rotie's terroir and purity. As an example of his sense of responsibility and attention to detail, Jean-Luc refused to buy second-hand barrels when he started, so early vintages were oaky. Now he has achieved the balance he was looking for with much less new oak. This is a family making balanced and authentic wines without make-up.
Jean-Luc's Cote-Rotie 'Terrasses' vineyards are to the north of the appellation and have decent elevation; his vineyards include nearly a hectare each of Bonnivieres, Mornachon and Chavaroche among other super-fine terroirs. His 2018 Cote-Rotie is 100% Syrah, and has all of its own perfume and aromatic character preserved and enhanced by the excellent vintage conditions. It was a warm year, but cool nights contrasted with the hot days; then there was the periods of the mistral wind, which also cools things considerably, as you will know if you have ever stood in one. Seductive from barrel, this wine deserves to be held for at least five years after arrival here. Then you will find more complexity matching the refined and silky tannins.
2019 is another super vintage and with L'Enclave and the IGP Syrah you have a chance to preview it in a similar way that you can preview the Brunello of a vintage with the earlier Rosso release. Both of these wines are good bargains, with the Syrah grown close by the family cellars at Le Vallin. L'Enclave is a second wine of the Terrasses, with most of the fruit coming from Bonnivieres and Champrond. /CW
Offered subject to confirmation; for shipment late Spring 2021
