Thierry Allemand, Cornas, Reynard 2023

Coming mostly from older vines in the Reynard lieu-dit, the 2023 Cornas Reynard is darker and more mineral-driven, offering loads of violets, cassis, and graphite aromatics. Full-bodied, balanced, and serious on the palate, it delivers incredible purity and finesse, with a finish that won't quit. This is a profound, age-worthy Cornas that's probably the Cornas of the vintage. I'm always amazed how this estate marries the inherent wildness of Syrah grown on this steep, granite slope with incredible finesse and elegance, which I think is the hallmark of Allemand.