2020 La Pialade Côtes du Rhône

this is an elusive cult red from the mythical cellars of Emmanuel Reynaud: La Pialade Côtes du Rhône 2020. Famously considered the "baby Rayas," this cuvée is blended from younger vines and selected lots from Château Rayas and Château de Fonsalette, vinified with Reynaud’s signature hands-off philosophy, whole-cluster fermentation, and extended aging in ancient, neutral oak demi-muids. Hailing from the expressive and beautifully balanced 2020 vintage, it pours a pale, translucent ruby that belies an astonishing, soaring aromatic intensity. The nose bursts with a seductive perfume of crushed wild strawberries, ripe raspberries, and kirsch, layered with dried rose petals, potpourri, sweet orange peel, white pepper, black tea, and wild garrigue herbs. On the palate, it is ethereal, weightless, and silky, delivering intense red berry purity enveloped in fine-grained, melted tannins and a lively streak of refreshing acidity that glides into a lingering, savory, and remarkably fragrant finish.

Highlights

• Vintage: 2020

• Region/Appellation: Côtes du Rhône, Southern Rhône Valley, France

• Producer: Château Rayas / Famille Reynaud (Emmanuel Reynaud)

• Grape: Grenache-dominant (typically blended with Cinsault and a touch of Syrah)

• Style: Ethereal, Silky, Pale, Highly Allocated, Aromatic Cult Southern Rhône Red

• Bottle Condition Note: Pristine cellar condition; red wax/foil capsule, fill level, and iconic shield-crested estate label are impeccably preserved.

• Perfect for (food pairing): Pan-roasted squab with cherry jus, roasted Bresse pigeon, slow-roasted rack of lamb with rosemary and garlic, pan-seared duck breast with spiced berry sauce, or roasted quail. Its delicate red-fruit profile, floral rose petal perfume, and silky tannins also make it a phenomenal match for grilled veal chops with chanterelles, wild mushroom risotto, slow-cooked pork tenderloin, rabbit stew with thyme, or artisanal cheeses such as aged Comté, Saint-Nectaire, or mild goat’s milk cheese.