The 2009 Cornas Les Chailles’s inky purple color is followed by notes of sweet fruits, a sexy (a term I rarely use for Cornas) style, low acidity, silky tannins, full body and layer upon layer of black fruits, licorice and barbecue smoke. It should drink well for 15+ years. Voge has turned in extraordinary Cornas offerings in both 2009 and 2010. He is also one of the finest producers of dry St.-Peray, which compete with the top wines of that appellation now being produced by Stephane Robert. Voge’s 2010 Cornas may only be eclipsed by his 2009s. These wines are now being made by Albert Mazoyers, who worked for many years with Michel Chapoutier and is one of the most respected young wine producers in the northern Rhone. The spectacular 2009s may be the finest wines I have ever tasted from Alain Voge. Importer: Citadel Trading Corp., New York, NY; tel. (212) 245-2844

This has great grip from the start, exhibiting a tapenade and iron frame to the lively blackberry, currant and anise flavors at the core. Lots of briar and bay leaf notes chime in on the finish, as the fruit stays persistent as well. Should age nicely. Rock-solid. Drink now through 2022. 830 cases made.??–JM??Region: France / Northern Rh?ne / Cornas Select to Add