Côte Rôtie "Fortis" 2023 Stéphane Montez | Rhône

The flagship of Domaine du Monteillet, Stéphane Montez 's Côte-Rôtie Fortis embodies the spirit of courage and perseverance that has driven the Montez family for generations. Its name pays homage to the motto of the winemaker's ancestor, owner of the wine estate in the XVIIᵉ century and Marshal of France under Louis XIV: " Fortis fortuna fortior ", luck strengthens valour. Nestled on the slopes of the Côte Blonde, south of Ampuis, the vines of Syrah (95%) and Viognier (5%) sink their roots into the granite and leucogneiss soils typical of the Côte Rotie. In this arid, rocky environment, the vines produce grapes of rare concentration that only meticulous winemaking can reveal. Hand harvesting, complete destemming, cold maceration and long fermentation with indigenous yeasts reflect Stéphane Montez du Monteillet 's determination to preserve the pure identity of the fruit. Ageing for 22 months in new demi-muids gives Côte Rôtie Fortis its finesse, complex nuances and elegant patina.

Philippe Mischler, sommelier at Mundovin : Stéphane Montez 's Côte-Rôtie Fortis is a racy wine of admirable density and remarkable aromatic precision. It's a cru that perfectly illustrates Domaine du Monteillet 's vision of Côte Rôtie: combining the power and refinement of the grape varieties with the minerality of the terroir. Far from stylistic effects, Côte Rôtie Fortis embodies quiet strength and balance, with ageing potential easily exceeding a decade. A classic reference with a resolutely contemporary soul.

The nose seduces with its intensity and complexity of ripe blackcurrant and cooked cherry, mingled with elegant roasted accents from ageing, drawing on Bourbon vanilla and noble wood. This aromatic richness retains the minerality that is the hallmark of Domaine du Monteillet.

On the palate, ripe, perfectly integrated tannins structure a silky, elegant body, perfectly balanced by controlled acidity. The fruit aromas are dazzling, blending blackcurrant and blackberry with a light floral touch from the Viognier. The refined finish stretches to toasty nuances and sweet vanilla, offering a delicious fullness whose persistence imprints the palate with admirable length.