Hmmm, I’m enjoying this Northern Rhone series. A chance to drink some wonderful wines. Here’s the latest: it’s a Cornas from Clape, but it isn’t at all rustic. Some people still characterize Cornas as producing rather stern, rustic wines, but I don’t think this is the case any more. It’s a serious appellation.
The Clape family farm just under 5.5 hectares of vines in the appellation, and this cuvee is made from the younger vines. It includes the climats of Geynale, Tézier, Mazards, Patou and Pied la Vigne. Fermentation is with 100% stems, and there’s a little post-ferment maceration. The wine then spends 18 months in wood.
Domaine Clape Cornas Cuvee Renaissance 2007
13% alcohol. Deep coloured, with lovely sweet, smooth elegant black cherry and blackberry fruit on the nose, as well as some mineral overtones. The palate is ripe, supple and elegant with smooth texture and lovely black cherry fruit. There’s some structure, but it integrates well with the sweet fruit. Lovely cool climate Syrah character: this is Cornas in its most refined form. 94/100 (£28.75 Yapp)
For me, you’re spot on. Realy enjoyed this back in March. Very elegant and cool, yet very pleasing in a hedonistic way (rather than just intellectualy).
Tasted alongside (blind, as well) was the big brother Clape 2007 Cornas. This was sulky and reductive, ripe and sweet yet raw tannins and short finish. We all thought it was a weak Israeli Syrah… When unveiled, I felt I somehow missed it completely. Or was it an off bottle? Have you tasted this one? Thanks!