"One of the superstars of Cornas is Domaine Alain Vogue." 

-Robert Parker

The hills above the village of Cornas form a southeast-facing amphitheater of vineyards that is the hidden treasure of France's Rhone Valley. Celtic for "burnt earth," Cornas is a minuscule, steep appellation blanketed in broken granite. No tractor touches these vineyards, only boots and hooves.  

While the northern Rhone as a whole is known for seriously structured, remarkably ageworthy Syrah, Cornas has the distinction of being the southernmost of these appellations, catching the perfect dose of warmth and sunshine to round out these famously tannic wines. 

Alain Voge has acquired some of the greatest vineyards in Cornas, many of which were planted nearly a century ago. His winemaker, Albéric Mazoyer, is a true master at transforming great Syrah into unforgettable wine.

One of the best expressions of this region we've ever had the pleasure of tasting is the 2009 Alain Voge Cornas Vieilles Vignes. Saturated black fruit is cut with scorched stone. Rich, chewy and galvanized by filigreed tannin, the Voge Cornas hums with energy. There is no region quite like Cornas and there is no Cornas like Alain Voge's.