2009 Thierry Allemand Cornas Chaillots, Rhone, France

Thierry Allemand’s Chaillots is drawn from the domaine’s younger Syrah vines on the steep slopes of Cornas, offering a more immediately expressive counterpart to Reynard while retaining the purity and mineral intensity that define Allemand’s wines. Fermented with whole clusters and aged for two years in seasoned foudres and barriques, the 2009 captures the warmth of the vintage with remarkable freshness and precision. Cassis, black raspberry, violet, savory herbs, graphite, and crushed stone unfold across a supple, concentrated palate with vibrant acidity, finely textured tannins, and a long, spicy mineral finish.

94 points -Wine Advocate