Cornas, Domaine Auguste Clape 2001

The impressively youthful 2001 Clape Cornas presents a surprisingly dark color for its age, along with powerful, densely packed dark fruit, licorice, espresso and bitter chocolate character. A smoky mineral note sharpens and extends the long, smoky finish, which leaves cherry liqueur, candied violet and fruitcake notes behind. This is still a youngster and it’s definitely built for the long haul.

A blockbuster, and potentially the finest wine produced at this estate in four or five years, the inky-colored 2001 Cornas exhibits aromas of white flowers, melted licorice, sweet creme de cassis, blackberries, and blueberries. Profoundly concentrated and full-bodied, this jammy, thick Cornas possesses copious tannin, but it is largely obscured by the wealth of fruit and glycerin. It should turn out to be one of Clape’s greatest efforts. Anticipated maturity: 2006-2022. A brilliant Cornas!

An exceptional Cornas. At 19 years, this is at a lovely state of maturity, complex but still sappy. A perfect time to drink it, but no great hurry. Smoked meats and singed herbs, blackberry and juniper. Soft, yielding, and harmonious, still fresh and so long. Full of life and power it rises up on the finish and spreads its wings. A long, complex, saline style with perfect balance.