Cornas Les Eygats, Domaine Courbis 2017

The 2017 Cornas Les Eygats offers a more granite-driven bouquet of bloody blue fruits, liquid rocks, violets, game, and smoked meat. With full-bodied richness, integrated acidity, plenty of tannins, and more than enough fruit and pure opulence on the palate, this beauty needs 4-5 years of bottle age but is a singular, brilliant wine in every sense. This cuvée was destemmed and brought up in 50% new barrels. 2024-2044

In contrast to the Champelrose, which seemed to be closing down slightly, the 2017 Cornas les Eygats was in fine form at the domaine last July. Crushed stone notes and hints of resinous herbs accent red currants and cassis in a wine that's full-bodied and velvety. It's aged in 50% new oak, yet that's barely perceptible, except perhaps in the wine's richer, plusher texture. 2020-2030