The Cornas of the vintage is Clape’s 2012 Cornas. An incredible effort, its inky purple/black color is followed by spectacular aromas and flavors of black raspberry, graphite, beef blood, iron, cedar and white pepper (among other things). This is Cornas at its finest, with insane aromatics, full-bodied richness and massive concentration, yet at the same time staying elegant, seamless and gorgeously pure. It’s more approachable than the 2010, but should still need 3-4 years of cellaring and have two decades of longevity. - Jeb Dunnuck

Gorgeous, with captivating aromas of rosemary, lavender, violet and warmed cherry preserves, followed by vivid black currant, boysenberry and plum pâte de fruit flavors. Shows ample olive, pepper and bay leaf notes in reserve, with serious chalky grip for the long haul. This has power, purity and terroir for days. The benchmark estate of the AOC. Best from 2018 through 2032. 1,580 cases made. –JM