With its roots in the esteemed vineyards of Côte-Rôtie, the 2020 Bassenon is a testament to the magic that this region can weave. Scoring a well-deserved 95 points, this vintage offers a tantalizing bouquet of dark berries and black pepper, underpinned by an earthy minerality that speaks to its origin. On the palate, it unveils layers of complexity, intertwining ripe fruit flavors with hints of spice and a subtly smoky finish. This is a wine that truly shines when paired with a hearty beef stew or a robust cheese platter, making it a perfect choice for a cozy dinner party or a romantic evening by the fireplace. Given its quality and the depth of its flavors, securing a bottle of this Côte-Rôtie at its retail price would be a smart buy that delivers well beyond its peers.