From: Cornas, Nothern Rhone Valley, France
Varietal: Syrah
Taste & Critical Acclaim: 2021 Vintage: “The younger vine cuvée from this great estate is the 2021 Cornas Les Chailles, which is from a mix of terroirs. Its deeper ruby hue is followed by a solid perfume of ripe blackberries, red plums, ground pepper, and flowery incense. This carries to a medium-bodied Cornas with bright acidity, a supple, layered mouthfeel, and just ripe tannins. It should be an outstanding wine and certainly does well in the vintage.” Jeb Dunnuck: 89-91/100 Points
Pairing: With its deep ruby hue and perfume of ripe blackberries, red plums, ground pepper, and flowery incense, offers a medium-bodied profile with bright acidity and ripe tannins. To complement these flavors, pair it with hearty dishes such as grilled lamb chops, beef stew, or roasted duck. Mushroom risotto or wild mushroom ravioli would enhance the earthy notes. For an amazing tradional pairing, a chicken liver mousse with mushrooms would be an excellent pairing, balancing the wine's acidity and providing a rich, savory contrast.
Paola di Mauro’s Roman Lamb
Recipe from Paola di Mauro
Adapted by Nancy Harmon Jenkins
About: The Alain Voge winery, a renowned estate in the Northern Rhône region of France, is located in the village of Cornas. Established in the mid-20th century by Alain Voge, who took over the family vineyards in 1958, the winery has a rich history. Voge produced the first vintage of Alain Voge Cornas in 1965 and began converting the estate to organic farming in 1978, well ahead of the modern organic movement in viticulture. The estate received full organic certification in 2006 and fully implemented biodynamic practices in 2013.
Born into a family with a long winemaking history in Cornas, Alain Voge was instrumental in elevating the status of the Cornas appellation and is considered a pioneer in the region. Though Voge passed away in 2020, his legacy continues through the dedicated team at the winery, which remains a family-run business committed to maintaining traditional methods while embracing modern sustainable practices.
