2016 Cornas Champelrose
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Tasting notes
Readers looking for a hidden gem in 2016 should check out the Cornas Champelrose from Courbis, as it way over-delivers. Offering up classic dark fruits, earth, hints of chocolate, and loads of meatiness, this full-bodied effort boasts a rounded, sexy texture, sweet tannins, and loads of upfront charm and appeal. Drink it any time over the coming 7-8 years. These 2016s and 2017s from the Courbis brothers are terrific follow-ons to their brilliant 2015s. The 2016 Cornas are some of the finest in the vintage and have sexy, ripe profiles that offer more pleasure than most. The 2017s are in the same ballpark, with slightly more upfront charm and approachability. In addition to the Cornas releases, this team is turning out some heavenly Saint Josephs!
Critic scores
Average Score
Richard Hemming MW, jancisrobinson.com
Jeb Dunnuck
More reviews and scores
(30% new oak) Lurid ruby. Mineral-accented aromas of fresh boysenberry, cola, violet and olive paste, joined by a smoky nuance that builds in the glass. Energetic black and blue fruit flavors pick up licorice, mocha and floral nuances as the wine stretches out. Powerful but energetic as well, finishing with excellent clarity and smooth tannins that emerge slowly.
The entry-level Cornas from Courbis, the 2016 Cornas Champelrose sees no new oak. It offers briary aromas of red raspberries, a velvety, open-knit texture and a long finish tinged with orange zest and clove. Drink this medium to full-bodied wine from its release in early 2018 through 2025.
Sparky bonfire smoke and dark chocolate with rich black fruit. Fine tannin – very accessible for the appellation. Excellent. (RH)