Thierry Allemand Reynard Cornas 2017

Cellar for up to 20 years Ideally decant for a few hours for this vintage. Dark opaque ruby, almost inky, in colour with deep violet hues glimmering in the light near the edges. This wine, emerging from the heart of the much-treasured Cornas, presents a bright, deep nose of blackberries, cassis red fruits, winter spices, leather and apt expressions of the granitic soils that cultivated these grapes. Earthy, floral undertones emerge, still with a certain shyness, as the bouquet opens slowly to reveal some hints of tobacco and pepper, all to be expected of the steady elegance that comes with the renowned pedigree of this classic selection. Juicy, rugged floral flavours of sour cherry, chokecherry and licorice that are stunning in their intensity leads to a savoury, full-bodied and thick palate that is dense and round but showing a meticulously harmonious undercurrent that will develop nuances and quality definition with time. Excellent core with a concentrated, generous and somewhat chewy mouthfeel. Good, although still slightly tight, tannins and balanced acidity. Long, abundant finish with a calculated, muted sweetness extends the strong floral component to this excellent wine that is full of heart. Its delightful deepness is best viewed as contextual and is actually quite subtle when compared alongside the dramatic nature of previous vintages. The density of the structure here is built to last, and a number of years in the cellar will really enhance and liven the complexity, but with some patient decanting, this young Syrah is a very enjoyable, almost otherworldly offering and a must for collectors looking for a good staple for this varietal. Pairs well with red meat, veal or pasta.