Domaine Johann Michel Cornas Cuvee Jana 2019

This one caught me by surprise – 98 points is the latest in this top-notch portfolio for this micro-production, Northern Rhone specialist, that I’m ashamed to say I’ve only just discovered! Better late than never – a truly exceptional Cornas, all at the best price in the country! Only about 8 cases, however, so grab yours today!

Johann Michel is living the dream that nearly every single wine lover has entertained at some point in their life. Not an ounce of formal training, and driven only by a deep love of wine developed over the years by tasting old vintages alongside with his grandfather – he decided to try his luck at making wines all on his own. His first vintage was 1997. In the years since, with only a few hectares to call his own, he has managed to score a whole slew of 95+ scores – from the likes of Jeb Dunnuck, Robert Parker’s The Wine Advocate, Vinous, and more!

This powerfully opulent Cornas hails from two of Johann’s premiere plots – Les Côtes and Chaillot – two lieux dits that he planted himself in the early 2000s. Set on the steeply sloping and granite-flecked hills of Cornas, these are inky dark and concentrated berries of syrah, with a depth of flavor and classic structure that rivals the best parcels in the entire appellation. Johann’s unique talent lies in coaxing the delicate floral and electric brightness from these wines – granting elegance and purity to a product that is naturally quite rustic.

Such is the beauty of Cornas – the opportunity of a wildness that has been tamed – and this vintage is a perfect showcase of such a sentiment. Intoxicating aromatics of violets, lilacs, peppermint, and smoke – this is densely perfumed and heady. The flavors follow suit – with vibrant notes of blueberries and mulberries, a savory meatiness that is classic Northern Rhone, with ample spice of licorice and clove, and accents of white pepper, black olive, and iron ore. The wine is exceptionally smooth, yet finishes with an intricate webbing of youthful tannins and structure – declaring undoubtedly that this Cornas will excel for a decade plus to come! Decant in the now, or savor each sip over the course of an entire evening – but make no mistake – syrah doesn’t get much more powerful than this! Or much better in my opinion. Cheers!

PAIRING IDEAS: Back in my cheffing days, one of my greatest successes was a lamb ragu that was served with housemade pappardelle pasta (infused with blanched arugula, both for peppery liveliness and a cool, vibrant green color) and finished with English peas, mint, and pecorino.