The dense purple-hued 2010 Cornas Champelrose exhibits notes of licorice, spring flowers, roasted coffee, white chocolate, blackberries and cassis. Pure and rich, with little noticeable oak, it should be drinkable between 2017 and 2035. (Not yet released)Two brilliant vintages from Domaine Courbis include the more forward 2009s and the equally fine 2010s, which will require considerable patience. The 2010s have slightly higher acids, which tends to make the tannins more noticeable, but they are also extremely concentrated, with massive palate impressions. It is often said that Cornas is made for those with 19th century palates, but Courbis has tamed the uncivilized ruggedness and wilder aspects of Cornas, resulting in huge wines, but undeniably Cornas.Importer: Russell Herman, Berkeley Heights, NJ; tel. (908) 771-9082

The 2010 Cornas Champelrose exhibits a black/purple color along with a floral note, and a terrific, full-bodied texture with gorgeous ripeness, purity and expansiveness. This savory, full-throttle, compelling Cornas will benefit from 2-3 years of cellaring and drink well for two decades or more. One of the most quality conscious estates in the Northern Rhone, Domaine Courbis produces a trio of vineyard designated Cornas as well as two cuvees of impressive St.-Joseph. After the brilliant success of their 2009 vintage, I thought it would be difficult for this estate to equal what they achieved, but the 2010s are all stunning, and the 2011s are not far behind. The Courbis family has nearly 48 acres in St.-Joseph and another 20 in Cornas, making them a relatively impressive family-owned estate. The Cornas vineyards are planted in decomposed granite soils with little top soil. The Cornas Les Eygats emerges from what the Courbis brothers feel is their greatest micro-climate, from a terraced vineyard composed of broken granite, planted at an altitude of 250 meters. Importer: Russell Herman, Berkeley Heights, NJ; tel. (908) 771-9082