Consumers loath to explore Cornas because of ever-increasing prices should consider Vincent Paris's 2020 Cornas Granit 30 when it is released. Hints of violets, crushed stone, licorice and cassis all appear on the nose of Paris's entry-level cuvée, providing ample complexity. A strong effort, it's full-bodied, ripe and silky in texture, with a lingering finish. It may not be classic, put-hair-on-your-chest rustic Cornas, but it's a delicious mouthful of Syrah that's true to its granitic origins.

The 2017 Cornas Granit 30 features flattering aromas of cracked pepper, ground clove, fresh raspberries and crushed stone. But while the wine is full-bodied, it comes across as slightly austere and lacking mid-palate texture, before finishing long, with hints of Berry Zinger tea.

The 2016 Cornas Granit 30 had been blended and was in tank awaiting bottling during my visit. Medium to full-bodied, it’s already almost drinkable, showing attractive and classic notes of crushed stone, blood and cherries, reasonably supple tannins and charming blueberries on the finish.

A blend of two parcels, the medium-bodied 2015 Cornas Granit 30 is taut and crisp, with red plums, red currants and dusty tannins. While well made, it lacks the ripeness and excitement of the domaine’s top cuvées.

Fresh and energetic, with a bright core of raspberry, pomegranate and cherry fruit liberally laced with savory and violet notes. A light chalky spine holds the finish. A more approachable style of Cornas, but with good typicity of flavors. Drink now through 2022. 1,000 cases made, 200 cases imported.??–JM??Region: France / Northern Rh?ne / Cornas Select to Add