Northern Rhone
Cornas (隆河)

Click to View: Map of Northern Rhone

Cornas is situated directly south of Saint-Joseph, and west of the river Rhône. It is 12 km south of Tournon and directly east of Valence. Importantly temperatures are hotter than Hermitage which is only 7km away. Its a small appellation located in a south-facing semi-ampitheatre with granite-rich soils. The appellation was established in 1938 and only red wines are produced solely from the Syrah grape. Fast developing a following of its own, Cornas AC produces only red wines made from the Syrah variety. These wines are some of the biggest, most full-bodied wines made in the region.

A contributing factor to the style of the wines is the granite-based soil and the wines are made traditionally and often spend two years in oak. The wines are strong and powerful - a cross between Hermitage and Cote Rotie, but typically with less elegance and finesse. They tend to be much more serious wines than either Saint-Joseph or Crozes-Hermitage.

Cornas can also have a slightly raw and rustic side to them. Young Cornas can be deep, dense, almost pitch black in colour and ferociously tannic. After 5-10 years of ageing the best examples take on a more elegant and complex character marked by aromas of sous-bois and wild animals.

Other growing districts in the Rhone cut the boldness of their wines by blending in other red or white varieties, but not Cornas. From better vintages, the wines can be dark red, almost black, with an intense fruitiness and plenty of tannins. They can require 5 to 10 years of aging before they soften and become fully enjoyable.

Grape(s):

Soils:

From left to right: Granite, Sand, and Terrace.

Weather Conditions:
This area sees a moderate continental climate, with warm summers and regular rainfall in the other seasons. The area can suffer under the mistral, a strong, cold wind from the north, which can last for several days.

From left to right: Continental Climate, Strong Winds, Warm Summers, and Moderate Rainfall.

Best Producers:
Auguste & Pierre Clape
Noel Verset
Alain Voge
Thierry Allemand
Jean-Luc Colombo
Michel Courtial
Paul Jaboulet
Marcel Juge
Cave des Papes
Cave de Tain l’Hermitage
Chapoutier
Delas
Johann Michel

Further Reading:
Terroir France
Wikipedia
Wine Anorak