2015 Domaine Vincent Paris, Cornas “30 Granit” Northern Rhone, France.
An earthy pure Syrah from Vincent Paris, the 30 stands for the degree of slope, giving lots of terroir, but with the ripe flavors of the vintage with a rich vein of black fruit and lovely detailing throughout making for a fine example of varietal and region. Hints of game, anise and spicy notes lead on the nose while the palate unfolds with damson plum, blackberry/boysenberry, tart currant, blueberry and cherry backed up with wild mushroom, flinty stones, tapenade, cedar, leather and sweet kirsch. Air brings a more dense feel in mouth and though young the tannins are rounded allowing a textural pleasure and generous length, this Syrah has good form and is performing really well. After a bit more time in the glass a pretty side comes through with subtle violets, mineral tones, salted black licorice and brambly raspberry. After 20 vintages now as a vigneron, Vincent Paris who started his winemaking career in 1997, nephew of Cornas legend Robert Michel, isn’t a newbie here, but is still considered a young star here in this ancient and traditional region of the Northern Rhone, and he is a co-president of the appellation, showing the respect of his peers. Grown on granite soils, the Vincent Paris Granit 30, comes from plots of organic Syrah vines that not only are on that 30% grade, but also average 30 years of age, Vincent goes to the extreme in limiting crop size with ultra tiny yields to get the concentration at his vineyard sites that sit at 300 meters above sea level that has perfect south facing which allows extra sun ripening. This cuvee is fermented two thirds in barrel and one third in stainless steel then raised in most used French oak for about a year, with only about 1,000 cases made, this producer is new to me, but I’ll tell you I’ll be getting more of his wine for my own use and will be following up with his other wines. With the price of Cornas rising, Vincent Paris is making some great values, and I believe very cellar worthy, drink is lovely 2015 over the next decade.
($36 Est.) 93 Points, grapelive
