2020 - Cornas, Auguste Clape

I tasted four different components of the 2020 Cornas from foudre. From 40-year-old vines in La Côte, a medium to full-bodied sample with attractive menthol, red plum and violet notes, ample structure but a bit short (92 - 94). From 50- to 60-year-old vines in La Sabarotte, an earthier, more savory example, with a rich, velvety texture and crisp acids (93 - 95). From 60- to 70-year-old vines in La Côte, a wine that seems to have it all: intense cassis, crushed stone, licorice and black olives, plus amazing richness and length (97 - 99). And finally, from old vines in Reynard, a breathtaking, hauntingly floral rendition marked by purple raspberries and fantastic concentration (98 - 100). The blend should be terrific.

The full-bodied 2020 Cornas is a wild thing. Concentrated and expressive, it combines all the elements that Clape-enthusiasts rave about: a juicy core of fruit, ferrous gradations, crushed flowers, meaty undertones, rustic funkiness and an herbal edge. Remarkably round tannins lend solid structure to the delicious 2020, an instant classic that shows excellent persistence on the savory finish.

Cask samples tasted at the domaine.Sample 1: Petite Côte.Firm, muscly with powerful but refined tannins. Certain depth as well.Sample 2: SabarotteAgain, muscly and tight but long on the finish. Slightly harder edged. Ferrous, balsamic notes.Sample 3: La Côte.Dense and profound with a huge depth of fruit and tannin. Tannins powerful but refined.Sample 4: Reynards vieilles vignes (70-80 years).Length and definition, the tannins tight but refined. Floral, violet notes. Persistent. (JL)