Cornas, Domaine Auguste Clape 2021

Inky violet. Intense aromas of cherry, blackberry, olive, exotic spices and pipe tobacco are complemented by a smoky mineral nuance and a hint of bacon fat. Chewy and subtly sweet, offering concentrated, smoke-laced kirsch, dark berry preserve, espresso and licorice flavors and a spicy jolt of black pepper. Finishes impressively long and spicy, with chewy tannins and a building floral note.

The 2021 Cornas is a small step up over the Renaissance, with a touch more density and depth, although both play in the more medium-bodied, moderately concentrated style of the vintage. Classy blue fruits, plums, violets, and sappy, peppery notes all define the aromatics, and it's nicely balanced, with fine tannins, and outstanding length. It too will benefit from a few years and drink nicely over the following decade.

The flagship 2021 Cornas, which comes from the older vines, is clearly outstanding and will also offer lots of up-front appeal. Classic Clape wild blue fruits, iron, violets, and floral notes were present in all of the samples, and it should be a medium-bodied, balanced Cornas. As with the Renaissance, it has good ripeness, but this certainly brings more tannins and structure.