2015 Lionnet Cornas "Terre Brulee"

Decanter 92

“Closed on the nose, but the palate structure is big-boned with lifted black cherry and plum elements. It is a prowling panther, deep and dense with grippy tannins and a mineral edge.” (October, 2017)

Jeb Dunnuck 95

“The 2015 Cornas Terre Brûlée comes from a total of seven different lieux-dits throughout the appellation (all are granite soils) and was vinified in concrete tanks before spending 18 months in older demi-muids. It offers a classic, traditional feel in its blackberry, peppery herbs, bouquet garni and violets aromas and flavors. With full-bodied richness, nicely integrated acidity and superb concentration, it's just another sensational Cornas from this vintage. Bravo to Corinne Lionnet and Ludovic Izerable!” (January, 2018)

Jancis Robinson 17/20

“Blackish crimson. Salty/treacly nose with masses of fruit. Is this really Cornas?! Masses of pleasure. Most impressive! And not a silly price.” (March, 2017)

Vinous Media (Josh Raynolds) 93

“Lurid ruby. Spice- and mineral accented dark berry and floral pastille scents show excellent delineation and pick up deeper licorice and olive paste nuances with air. Sappy and expansive on the palate, offering juicy boysenberry, bitter cherry and spicecake flavors lifted by a distinct mineral flourish. Powerful yet lithe for the vintage, delivering solid finishing thrust and smooth tannins that build steadily.” (April, 2018)

Wine Advocate (Joe Czerwinski) 94

“A terrific wine, the 2015 Cornas Terre Brulee combines smoky notes of grilled plums and meat in a full-bodied format. It's richly tannic and velvety at the same time, with a finish that's simultaneously drying (from tannins) and mouthwatering (from juicy fruit). Farmed organically, vinified with stems in concrete and aged in used, large-format oak, Cornas doesn't get more authentic (or better) than this!” (December, 2017)