Cornas „La Géniale Patronne“ 2017

Wine Description for Cornas „La Géniale Patronne“ 2017 by Du Coulet

Colour & Appearance

Deep ruby red with an almost black core – a Syrah that reveals its origin from the steep Cornas slopes already in the glass.

Nose

Matthieu Barret demonstrates masterful skill in bringing out the purity of Syrah. The nose is of captivating clarity: dark blackberries and mulberries meet herbaceous-spicy elderberries and wild raspberries. Subtle smoke notes and distinctive iron nuances evoke game and warm blood. Juniper and black pepper complete this multi-layered aromatic spectrum – nothing contrived, only pure essence.

Palate

The tannins take hold on the attack with a texture reminiscent of panné velvet – fine-meshed, delicate, precise. No opulence, no pompous display, but rather delicacy and finesse. The youthfully fresh fruit is elegantly enveloped by the tannins, which define length rather than volume. A Syrah that stands in its own way for nothing – neither the variety nor the terroir.

Finish

Orchestral and of impressive length, with distinct peppery spice that lingers long after. The tannin structure carries through to the very end.

Terroir & Origin

The grapes come from granite weathered soils, interspersed with clay and calcareous silt – a selection of young and old vineyard parcels from the middle sections of Barret’s steep slopes in Cornas.

Grape Variety & Vinification

100% Syrah from vines with an average yield of 25 hl/ha. Fermentation in steel tank, ageing in concrete eggs – a purist vinification that gives maximum expression to the terroir and the variety.

Food Pairing Suggestions

Roasted red beetroot with charred aubergine and salted walnuts, turbot in pumpernickel crust with beurre rouge, or classically with pigeon with turnips and smoky butter sauce.

Special Features

An exceptional Syrah that embodies Matthieu Barret’s uncompromising philosophy: clarity over power, precision over pomp. The name „La Géniale Patronne“ is a tribute to his wife – and this wine is indeed brilliant.