2020 - Cornas La Geynale, Vincent Paris

Ancient vines, a near-perfect southern exposition and Paris's genius touch combine in his 2020 Cornas la Geynale, which merits serious consideration as wine of the vintage within the tiny Cornas appellation. Spectacular aromas of blueberries and cassis lead the way, garnished by hints of sage, bay leaf, licorice and crushed stone. Full-bodied and ripe, it's nevertheless neither overly heavy nor rich, with an intriguing sense of weightlessness that easily carries that swirl of flavors through the long, silky finish.

Saturated ruby. A powerfully scented bouquet evokes ripe, spice-accented black and blue fruits, potpourri and exotic spices, along with savory olive paste, botanical herbs and smoked meat notes. Shows superb clarity, energy and depth to its sappy cassis, bitter cherry, licorice and candied violet flavors, which becomes livelier as the wine gains air. Dusty tannins build through a wonderfully long, smoky and mineral-driven finish that strongly echoes the spice and floral notes.

100% Syrah.Dark, intense, intriguing floral characters. Sweet fruit. Lovely hints of violet on the palate. Precise acidity, lingering mineral edge. Firm tannins, needs a few more years bottle age but will be excellent. Great length on finish. (AWH)