Wine of the Week

In Cote-Rotie, the famous “roasted slope” of the northern Rhone, Marcel Guigal is the master. His stunning single-vineyard Cote-Roties--La Mouline, La Landonne and La Turque--are snatched up as soon as they’re released, and at breathtaking prices.

But his blended Cote-Rotie, which goes by the name Brune et Blonde, shouldn’t be overlooked. The 1999 is one of the best Syrahs Guigal has ever made, and in a great vintage like this one, that’s saying a lot.

Cool and smoky, brilliant ruby in color, it has a gorgeous nose, a taste of dark plums and a smooth, silky texture. In other words, this is a wine with undeniable elegance. And for just over $30, it would be hard to find a better red from the northern Rhone.

Unlike Guigal’s single-vineyard wines, Brune et Blonde is available in quantity. You can even find it in half bottles.

About $34. Widely available at fine wine shops and retailers.