2018 Cornas "Empreintes" Domaine Durand
The 2018 Cornas “Empreintes” from Domaine Éric & Joël Durand is a true expression of the Cornas terroir. Powerful, complex, and well-structured, this wine offers a memorable tasting experience. It is an excellent choice for lovers of Rhône Valley wines, offering both immediate pleasure and a significant aging potential for those seeking to explore the evolution of this distinctive wine over time.
Winery: Domaine Éric & Joël Durand
Grapes: Syrah
Region: Cornas, Northern Rhône Valley, Rhône Valley, France
Appellation: Cornas
Color: Red
Bottle Size: 0.75 L
Description
The 2018 Cornas “Empreintes” from Domaine Éric & Joël Durand is a powerful and expressive wine that perfectly embodies the robust and complex character of Cornas wines. Winemakers Éric and Joël Durand are renowned for their expertise and deep respect for the terroir, producing wines that truly reflect the unique qualities of their region.
Blend
100% Syrah, providing aromatic intensity, tannic structure, and depth.
Tasting Notes
Color: Deep garnet-red, intense and dark, characteristic of top-tier Cornas wines.
Nose: Rich and complex, offering aromas of ripe black fruits like blackberry, cassis, and plum, accompanied by spicy notes of black pepper, licorice, and hints of garrigue. Subtle layers of leather, tobacco, and graphite add depth to the aromatic profile.
Palate: Powerful and well-structured, with concentrated flavors of black fruits harmoniously intertwined with spices, smoky nuances, and a distinctive minerality. The tannins are firm yet well-integrated, providing a velvety texture. The finish is long and persistent, showcasing layers of complexity.
Aging Potential
The 2018 Cornas “Empreintes” has an excellent aging potential. It can be enjoyed now for its fruit-forward intensity and power, but it will continue to evolve beautifully with cellaring for 10 to 20 years, developing more refined and complex flavors over time.
Food Pairings
This wine pairs perfectly with rich and flavorful dishes, including:
Grilled or braised red meats, such as ribeye steak or rack of lamb.
Game meats like wild boar or venison, served in a rich sauce.
Slow-cooked dishes like cassoulet or beef bourguignon.
Strong and pungent cheeses, such as Roquefort or Bleu d’Auvergne.