2019 Magnum Cornas Empreintes Domaine Durand
The 2019 Cornas “Empreintes” in magnum from Domaine Éric & Joël Durand is a wine of character, combining the power of Syrah with the minerality of the Cornas terroir. With its intense black fruit and spice aromas, structured tannins, and excellent aging potential, this wine is a sure bet for lovers of powerful and complex wines. Ideal for festive meals or special occasions, it will evolve beautifully over the years while retaining its strong and distinctive identity.
Winery: Domaine Éric & Joël Durand
Grape Variety: Syrah
Region: Cornas, Northern Rhône Valley, Rhône Valley, France
Appellation: Cornas
Color: Red
Bottle Size: 1.5 L (Magnum)
Description
The 2019 Cornas “Empreintes” from Domaine Éric & Joël Durand is a wine that embodies the most authentic expression of the Cornas terroir. This cuvée takes its name from the “imprints” left by the unique terroir and the Syrah vines planted on granite soils. Crafted by two passionate brothers, Éric and Joël Durand, this wine stands out for its power, aromatic depth, and significant aging potential. The magnum format enhances these qualities by allowing for a slower and more balanced development over time.
Blend
This wine is 100% Syrah, a grape that reveals its full structure, concentration, and spicy, fruity aromas in Cornas. The granite soils and southern exposure of the vines ensure optimal ripening, lending the wine exceptional intensity and complexity.
Tasting Notes
Appearance: The wine has an intense purple color with deep garnet highlights, a sign of the vintage’s concentration.
Nose: The nose is expressive and complex, offering ripe black fruit aromas like blueberry, blackcurrant, and blackberry, alongside spicy notes of black pepper, licorice, and clove. Hints of leather, violet, and a subtle minerality emerge with aeration, reflecting the granite terroir of Cornas.
Palate: On the palate, the wine is powerful, structured, and rich. The tannins are firm yet silky, providing a strong backbone. The black fruit flavors are complemented by spicy and roasted notes, leading to a long, persistent finish with touches of cocoa, garrigue, and flint. This Cornas impresses with its balance between power and freshness.
Aging Potential
The 2019 Cornas “Empreintes” in magnum has remarkable aging potential. While it is accessible in its youth for its aromatic richness and structure, it can be aged for 15 to 20 years or more. Over time, it will develop more complex and evolved aromas of forest floor, leather, and truffle, while its tannins will soften.
Food Pairing
This powerful and structured Cornas pairs beautifully with rich, flavorful dishes:
Grilled or roasted red meats (ribeye, leg of lamb)
Stews and braised dishes (Provençal beef stew, braised beef cheeks)
Game (venison, wild boar, deer)
Dishes with mushrooms or truffles (ragouts, truffle pasta)
Aged, strong cheeses (Roquefort, Morbier)