2010 Domaine Leccia “YL” Rouge Vin de Pays Corse, France (Corsican Red)
The YL is blend of 80% Grenache and 20% Niellucciu with vines an average age of 20-40 years, and tastes like a Cote-Rotie, very Syrah like, but with its own unique intensity and charm. Kermit Lynch has been championing Corsica for years, and while the wines have always been interesting and striking this latest set of reds are mind blowing and the “YL” is a world class wine that shows power, depth and remarkable finesse. Prior to the last few vintages, I had thought maybe the wines of Corsica had been a bit too pricey for the quality, but now I think they are more than fair, especially this 2010 Leccia “YL” with the perfume, balance and richness it shows. The nose has game, floral notes, garrique and spice leading to a lively palate of boysenberry, black plum, blueberry and currant fruits with fresh cracked pepper, fennel and violets. The background has a touch of meat, truffle and lavender with a mineral tone and vibrant acidity all of which balance the wine and adds complexity and life. The finish lingers on and on with a seducing effect with dried flowers, strawberry and a mouth coating roundness. This is a very impressive red that has a good chance of improving and evolving over the next two to five years.
($30 Est.) 94 Points, grapelive
Avail. at www.sfwtc.com & Kermit Lynch