Wines Rhône Hills Domaine René Rostaing Les Lézardes, Collines Rhodaniennes 2019 - 2019

Viniou Reviews

Domaine René Rostaing Les Lézardes 2019 from the Collines Rhodaniennes IGP is an impressive expression of Syrah, crafted by one of the Northern Rhône’s most respected winemakers. Although the “Les Lézardes” cuvée falls under the IGP classification rather than the prestigious appellations Côte-Rôtie or Condrieu where Rostaing excels, it draws deeply from similar terroirs and winemaking expertise. The 2019 vintage, marked by a warm and relatively dry growing season, lends the wine ripe fruit concentration while preserving the finesse and peppery freshness that Syrah from this region is renowned for. Expect aromas of blackberries, violets, black pepper, and hints of smoked meat, followed by a supple palate with fine tannins and a lively, mineral-tinged finish. The wine is vinified with the same care as the domaine’s grander cuvées, combining both traditional and modern techniques to highlight purity and elegance.

The Collines Rhodaniennes IGP stretches across the gentle slopes flanking the northern Rhône Valley, benefiting from a continental climate with significant temperature swings between hot summers and cool nights. The soils here are varied, dominated by granite and schist in many parcels, contributing decisively to the wine’s structure and aromatic complexity. The region’s viticultural history is closely tied to its prestigious neighbours; many top producers, like René Rostaing, utilise this IGP as a canvas for their younger vines or parcels outside AOC boundaries, offering wines that punch well above their weight in quality.

Pair this Syrah with roasted game birds, grilled lamb chops with rosemary, or a classic duck magret to echo the wine’s savory, spicy character. Regional Rhône specialities such as daube à la provençale or charcuterie will make for equally harmonious companions. For vegetarians, a mushroom and lentil stew or grilled aubergine with herbes de Provence will highlight the wine’s earthy nuances.

Serve Domaine René Rostaing Les Lézardes 2019 slightly cool, ideally at 16-17°C, after a short decantation to open up the bouquet and soften the tannins. This will allow you to fully appreciate both the youthful vigour and underlying elegance of this Northern Rhône Syrah.