2004 Cornas Renaissance
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Tasting notes
There are always two cuvees of Cornas, and like some of the most traditional producers I taste, the wines are often better out of bottle than the barrel and/or foudre samples. That is the case with 2004, where both wines revealed significantly more flavor and intensity than they did last year. The 2004 Cornas Renaissance has a dark ruby purple color, a sweet nose of plum, blackberry, licorice, and smoke, a beautiful, round, opulent texture, and surprising length, richness, and headiness. This is a terrific effort in this challenging vintage. Drink it over the next decade. Importer: Kermit Lynch Wine Merchant, Berkeley, CA; tel. (510) 524-1524
Critic scores
Average Score
Robert Parker
Josh Raynolds
More reviews and scores
Medium red. Intense floral and red berry aromas are bright and pungent. Supple and juicy, with fresh raspberry and cherry flavors, silky tannins and a long, lush finish. A late-arriving smoked meat quality and lingering sweet red berry tones add complexity to this distinctly suave Cornas.
Deep red. The floral, spicy, red berry-dominated bouquet builds in complexity with air. Minerally and expressive, with a vibrant red berry profile, a velvety texture, and bracing tannins. Quite elegant through the finish, which is lifted by bright fruity acidity and a light peppery note. Very promising wine from Cornas vines that are between 15 and 40 years old.