2016 Cornas AOC "Les Arèns", Rhône, France

Clear, rather cool and engagingly fine, polished red and black berry nose with floral and a little dried herbaceous notes, laurel, fleshy nuances as well as juniper and a little pepper. Clear, ripe and firm, tangy-juicy, yet warm fruit with fine, ripe tannins, nutty aromas, a hint of cocoa and Provence herbs, light warmth on the palate, a hint of liquorice and juniper, peppery nuances, some blood, some minerality, lasting, juicy, again warm finish with not only black fruit. Closes with air.

Best to drink: 2021-2032+. What our ratings mean