It’s rare I get caught off guard, happens once or twice a year if I am lucky.
This 100% Syrah from the Cornas region of Cote du Rhone has done just that. Jean Luc Colombo and his wife Anne’s commitment to Syrah is legendary, and this, their iconic flagship wine displaying all the elegance and finesse you would expect. The Cornas appellation is one of the smallest in the Cote du Rhone region spanning only 375 acres.
“For their significant life-long contributions to their country, both Jean-Luc and Anne have been awarded the French Legion of Honor, France’s highest civilian award. Today, Jean-Luc Colombo’s wines express the typicity of their terroir with elegance and character, from the northern Rhône to his Provençal roses” Source: Winery.
The 2018 is an exceptional vintage reflecting all the hard work and commitment that has gone into making this wine since its initial release in 1987 from, then, 90-year-old vines. The vineyard has been certified organic in 2016.
The enticing aromas of dark fruits, violets, and a hint of spices only elevates your level of anticipation.
One sip, and that anticipation is exceeded. There is an indefinable quality about this wine that starts with a silky-smooth mouthfeel that reflects impressive depth and complexity, beautiful balance, and panache.
Seamless layers of blackberries, black currant, raisins, violets, and plums, with secondary notes of blueberries, white pepper and cooking herbs do everything in their power to get you to take another sip.
That is not a hard task. The fruits are neatly wrapped in tannins now, so if you are planning to drink this soon, please allow 3 – 4 hours decanting to allow this to open so you can fully appreciate what it has to offer.
Cellar time: 2030 and beyond without a problem.
Food Pairings should include NY strips, beef, juicy half pound burgers from the grill, and game including rabbit, deer, turkey, and duck.
I've been in the wine business in both Australia and the US for over 25 years with experience in the retail and wholesale, import, winery management, and hospitality industries and have a passion for all things wine. During my career I've been involved in
--Wine Selection and Purchasing
--Cellar Stocking
--Wine List Curating
--Food Pairings
--Wine Tastings
--Winery Tours
In addition I've written a monthly newsletter for 6 years, taught classes and now, a blogger. I'm a firm believer in the simple believe of good friends, good food and good wine! I also believe you don't need an event to open a great bottle of wine, the opening of a great bottle of wine is the event.
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