Domaine René Rostaing cultivates the Rhône vineyards just outside Côte‑Rôtie from which the Les Lézardes 1996 hails. The parcels lie on gently sloping soils rich in limestone and schist, offering the grapes optimal sun exposure and good drainage. In the 1996 vintage, the continental climate of warm days and cool nights fostered even ripening, endowing the wine with structure, balance, and minerality.

The cuvée consists of 100% Syrah, harvested and sorted by hand, with moderate yields from old vines. The 1996 vintage is distinguished by classic northern Rhône character: pure fruit, balanced acidity, and well-structured tannins.

On the nose, the wine unfolds aromas of blackberries, cassis, and ripe cherry, underpinned by spicy nuances, subtle hints of leather and smoke, and Mediterranean herbs. On the palate, the Les Lézardes 1996 presents itself as dense, structured, and elegant, with supportive, harmonious acidity and supple, well-integrated tannins. The mineral imprint of the soils imparts depth and length, while the texture remains polished and poised.

Today, the Les Lézardes 1996 is in a mature drinking phase that harmoniously unites tertiary aromas with its core of fruit. Despite its age, it retains tension and substance, making it well suited for immediate enjoyment as well as moderate further cellaring while clearly preserving its terroir-driven Syrah signature.