"Sadly, there are only 23,000 bottles (all aged in small oak) of the outstanding 1996 Côte-Rôtie Chateau d'Ampuis, which was bottled in October, 1999. Its dark ruby/purple colour is followed by an intense nose of tapenade, dried herbs, licorice, leather, and black currants. The wine is nicely-textured, soft, with less acidity than most 1996 Côte-Rôties, and a layered, supple finish" Drink it over the next 10-12 years. Robert Parker 90 points Wine Advocate.
"Beautiful. Balanced, supple and silky. Full-bodied, it's delicious now thanks to the ripe, smooth tannins. Offers fresh blackberry and red berry flavors, with intense smoke and grilled character and a lively finish" 90 points Wine Spectator
Philippe Guigal was born in France not far from Ampuis, in Vienne, on January 23, 1975. At the early age of 6, he was inspired by his grandfather and father who worked together. Throughout his childhood he often joined them in the cellars and frequently traveled to visit the vineyards in the Rhone Valley. In 1992, he started his studies in organic chemistry and biochemistry at the University of Lyon and five years later he obtained his oenologist degree from the University of Burgundy.
