96-99
Nicolas Greinacher - Vinous
The 2020 Côte-Rôtie La Mouline is spectacular, mingling orange rind, cured meat, crushed rocks, violets, raspberry and cedar with a splash of espresso. Minty gradations complement the enticing aromatic profile. Tightly knit and sweet-tasting tannins neatly frame this outstanding La Mouline, managing to combine elegance with power remarkably well. I can’t wait to taste it once bottled.
97-98 Jeb Dunnuck - jebdunnuck.com
Leading off the single vineyards from barrel, the 2020 Côte Rôtie La Mouline, which includes a solid dose of Viognier, comes from a steep, terraced parcel in the Côte Blonde lieu-dit and will spend four years in new French oak. I don't think it has the sheer density of the 2015 or 2019, but what it does have is an incredibly classic La Mouline profile of floral, perfumed red and black fruits, spicy oak, roasted meats, and exotic spice that's to die for. With full-bodied richness, a plush, layered, multi-dimensional mouthfeel, and seamless, integrated tannins, it's going to shine with just a few years of bottle age yet evolve for 15-30 years in cold cellars.
98 James Suckling - Jamessuckling.com
Such a concentrated, focused yet bright La Mouline for the vintage. The nose reveals aromas of blackberries, dark plums, violets, undergrowth and black pepper. It's full-bodied with very fine tannins. It's ample, dense and yet so refined. The power is all under control, with the velvety, voluptuous core of dark cherries and berries mingling through the spices in harmony. The refined tannins guide the mid-palate onto a textural, long finish. Try after 2026.
95 Matt Walls - Decanter
Sticky damson and plum fruit, just a little touch of prune in the mix. Medium-bodied with fresh, fine tannins; quite an ethereal style of La Mouline, with floral hints and plentiful spicy oak among the roses. A compact style of wine for the vintage that suits what this vineyard delivers - good expression of terroir. I would drink this young, though it will no doubt age fairly well. From lieu-dit Côte Blonde and at the beginning of its 40 months in new French oak barriques.
