Once again the darkest, thickest, most powerful, and formidably concentrated of Guigal's single-vineyard Cote Roties, the 1985 La Landonne is also the least flattering and most intimidating. Like its two siblings, it is throwing a hefty sediment, with the inside of the bottle resembling that of a 15-year-old vintage port. The color is still a murky, inky purple. The nose offers up aromas of beef blood, vitamins (iron?), minerals, smoke, and truffles. Extremely thick, full-bodied, and massive, with noticeable tannin, this monster wine reveals no hard edges, but it does possess teeth-staining extract and power. It is a remarkable effort! Anticipated maturity: 2000-2025. Last tasted 8/96.

One of the greatest Northern Rhone wines ever made. Intense, concentrated and beautifully balanced, it's packed with characteristic game, tar, plum, spice and vanilla flavors. Luscious now, it may live forever.--Guigal Cote-Rotie vertical. -TM