The 2006 Cornas Renaissance is deep, full-bodied, fat, and fleshy with fig, leather, meat, and blackberry characteristics. Pure, multidimensional, layered, and easy to appreciate (even for newcomers to the wines of this appellation), it will drink well for 15 years. The master of Cornas, this estate continues to fashion a beautiful array of wines. With his son, Pierre-Marie, in charge, Auguste Clape enjoys a well-deserved retirement. In addition to outstanding Cornas, Clape also produces a very good Cotes du Rhone and Vin de Pays, both made from fruit grown just outside the Cornas appellation. 2007 is a slightly lighter vintage in Cornas than 2006, but the sweetness of the tannins, and the precociousness of the wines make the 2007 Cornas much more approachable than usual. Importer: Kermit Lynch Wine Merchant, Berkeley, CA; tel. (510) 524-1524