# Cornas (2020)

- **Producer:** Domaine Gérard Courbis
- **Colour:** red
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Syrah
- **Region:** Rhône, France
- **Style:** Classic
- **Alcohol:** 14.5%
- **Vegan:** Yes
- **Contains sulphites:** No
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 16–16 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** rose, violet, black cherry, black pepper, blackberry, blueberry, cassis, vanilla, smoke, graphite, incense, forest floor, iron

## About this wine

The Cornas 'Courbis Gérard Courbis' 2020 is a 100% Syrah from the AOC Cornas in France's Northern Rhône Valley. Domaine Gérard Courbis, a family estate run by Ludovic and Emmanuel Courbis, crafts this wine. The vineyards are situated on steep granite slopes, with vines averaging 10 years old, though the estate also boasts older vines. The wine is a testament to the traditional Northern Rhône style, emphasizing freshness and perfume, with a savory edge. The 2020 vintage is noted for its ripe yet fresh character and balanced profile.

## Interesting facts

- Vines are planted on high-lying terraces requiring manual harvesting.
- The estate includes plots named 'Les Mazars,' 'Sauman,' and 'Saint-Pierre.'
- The wine is aged in large 600-liter oak barrels.
- The Courbis family has a deep, multi-generational connection to Cornas.

## Food pairing

The wine's full body and firm tannins are well-suited to complement the richness of red meats and game, while its peppery and dark fruit notes can echo or contrast with savory herbs and fruit-based sauces. The acidity helps to cut through fattier dishes, cleansing the palate.

## Wine making process

The 2020 Cornas 'Courbis Gérard Courbis' is produced from 100% Syrah. Fermentation occurs in temperature-controlled stainless steel vats. Following fermentation, the wine undergoes a 24-month aging period in 600-liter oak barrels. The estate practices sustainable viticulture. Harvesting is done manually due to the vineyard's steep, terraced location.