The 2020 Domaine Lionnet Cornas Terre Brulee is a Syrah from the Northern Rhone region of France, specifically the Cornas appellation. This red wine, produced by Domaine Lionnet, is known for its deep and intense characteristics, reflective of its terroir. With an alcohol content of 14%, it is sealed with a traditional cork closure.
Decanter awarded the 2020 Domaine Lionnet Cornas Terre Brulee a score of 94, highlighting the wine's "good sense of aromatic clarity and freshness." The review notes that the wine is well-balanced, with controlled alcohol and good acidity. The tannins are described as "chewy, slightly chalky," and "plentiful and detailed," typical of the Cornas texture, leading to a long finish. The review concludes by describing the wine as "tannic and lean, fresh and cleansing."
Jeb Dunnuck gave the wine a slightly higher score of 95+, emphasizing its potential for aging. Dunnuck describes the wine as "similarly deep purple-hued" with a "darker, slightly richer" style, though it is noted to be less complex at this stage. The tasting notes mention black fruits, scorched earth, burning embers, and ground pepper, indicating the wine's serious depth and power on the palate. Dunnuck advises against opening bottles for at least 5-6 years to allow the wine to reach its full potential, calling it "brilliant."
Vinous also rated the wine 95, with Josh Raynoids providing detailed tasting notes. The wine is described as "inky ruby" with "intensely perfumed, mineral-accented cherry and black raspberry aromas," complemented by exotic spice, floral, and pipe tobacco accents. On the palate, the wine offers "sappy cherry-cola, dark berry, fruitcake, allspice, and olive flavors," which deepen through the back half. The finish is youthfully tannic with "firm tension and excellent clarity," echoing the floral notes and displaying superb tenacity.
Overall, the 2020 Domaine Lionnet Cornas Terre Brulee is a highly regarded Syrah, praised for its aromatic clarity, depth, and potential for aging. With excellent reviews from Decanter, Jeb Dunnuck, and Vinous, this wine stands out as a notable choice for enthusiasts seeking a powerful and well-structured red wine from the Cornas appellation.