AOC Cornas

History of the AOC Cornas Appellation

Nestled in the northern Rhône Valley, the AOC Cornas has stood out with a strong identity since its official recognition in 1938. This unique hillside vineyard benefits from an exceptional exposure that has always been at the heart of the region's viticultural history. Once appreciated by Roman emperors, Cornas wine has traversed the ages, maintaining a reputation for excellence and authenticity worldwide.

Climate and Terroir of the AOC Cornas Appellation

• Climate: Like the rest of the northern Rhône Valley, Cornas enjoys a temperate continental climate, with hot, dry summers that are conducive to optimal grape ripening.
• Soils: The granite soils and ancient terraces of the region create an ideal environment for the Syrah grape variety, offering minerality and complexity to these exceptional red wines.

Syrah: The Emblematic Grape Variety of the AOC Cornas

Syrah reigns supreme in Cornas, giving the appellation's wines their tannic structure, rich aromas, and excellent aging potential. This red grape variety, inseparable from the northern Rhône vineyards, shows one of its finest expressions within the AOC Cornas.

Style of AOC Cornas Wines

• Appearance: Deep red, almost black in color.
• Aroma: An explosion of red and black fruits (blackberries, cherries), spices, violets, and pepper. With age, complex notes of leather, undergrowth, and truffle emerge.
• Palate: Cornas wines are characterized by power and generosity, with firm tannins in their youth that soften and gain complexity over time.
• Serving Temperature: 16°-18°C
• Aging Potential: 10 to 20 years, or even longer depending on the estate and vintage.

Best Food Pairings with AOC Cornas Wine

Cornas wines, with their power and richness, pair wonderfully with robust dishes. Here are some suggestions for the best food pairings with a bottle of red wine from an AOC Cornas estate or château:

• Kid goat stew
• Roast lamb or leg of lamb
• Venison haunch
• Blue cheeses
• Grilled aged rib of beef