2007 Domaine Auguste Clape Cornas

The Cornas of the vintage is Clape’s 2012 Cornas. An incredible effort, its inky purple/black color is followed by spectacular aromas and flavors of black raspberry, graphite, beef blood, iron, cedar and white pepper (among other things). This is Cornas at its finest, with insane aromatics, full-bodied richness and massive concentration, yet at the same time staying elegant, seamless and gorgeously pure. It’s more approachable than the 2010, but should still need 3-4 years of cellaring and have two decades of longevity. While it doesn't get any more Cornas than Clape, these wines also speak just as loudly of the domaine as they do of the steep granite slopes of the appellation. There's always something unique in these wines, something bloody, meaty and iron-like, and I've yet to find something similar in other wines. In my opinion, these wines are the epitome of Cornas. (JD)

Wild and very perfumed on the nose, with lavender, smoked meat, black olive, and pepper, all supported by pure dark fruits, the 2007 Domaine Auguste Clape Cornas shines in the vintage, displaying beautiful purity of fruit, racy acidity, and striking focus and precision. More impressive for its aromatics and poise than its back end depth and structure, I would drink bottles over the coming 10 to 12 years.

Deep ruby. Red and dark berry aromas complicated by strong spice and smoke qualities and nuances of anise and black tea. Slow to unfold, offering sweet cassis and cherry flavors with some aeration. The smoky note returns on the finish, which delivers a big punch of sweet dark fruit and lingers with excellent smoky intensity. (JR)