Jean-Luc Colombo, the Rhone Valley oenologist who has received considerable publicity, has turned in his best effort to date from his home vineyard on the steep, stony slopes of Cornas. The 1991 Cornas-Les Ruchets boasts a nearly opaque dark ruby/purple color, a tremendous nose of black fruits (raspberries and plums), Provencal herbs, and subtle, toasty new oak. Rich and full-bodied, with layers of fruit, low acidity, and a voluptuous texture, this rich, concentrated Cornas reveals surprising finesse and complexity for a wine from this appellation. Yet, it in no way loses what the French call "typicity." It should drink well for 10-12 years.
Importer: Langdon-Shiverick, Chagrin Falls, OH.