Cornas Noel Verset 1988

A true legend of Cornas, Noel Verset was at the forefront of revolution in fie terroir Syrah from the northern Rhône until his death in 2015 at the age of 95. Verset`s legend continues, with his wines frequently out-pricing the very best bottlings from Côte Rôtie and Hermitage. "If you`re lucky enough to get your hands on a bottle of the Verset 1985 Cornas, and can afford the tariff, absolutely do not miss it. The wine displays powerful aromas of dried cherries, pungent flowers, cured tobacco and underbrush, with a hint of raw beef in the background - it really smells a lot like a mature, traditionally made, high-class Burgundy to me. Silky and alluringly sweet, it shows intense, palate-coating raspberry and cherry compote flavours that are lifted and sharpened by gentle acidity and a peppery nuance. The floral quality comes back strong on the tannin-free finish, which hangs on with outstanding tenacity and focus. It`s fully mature, no question, but I`d continue to hold onto my bottles of this wine, if I were lucky enough to have any, for at least another ten years, with full confidence." Vinous 2015