Paul Jaboulet-Aîné : Domaine de Saint-Pierre 2022

Crafted from vines planted at one of the highest points of the appellation, at 400 meters in altitude, the 2022 Cornas Domaine de Saint-Pierre reveals a brooding, dark bouquet of spices and pencil lead, mingled with smoke and toasty notes. Medium to full-bodied, layered and concentrated, it's structured with powdery tannins, concluding with a long, fresh, delicate finish. With its elegant, controlled power, this stunning Cornas is particularly charming.

The oak here is quite dominant, giving a smooth feel on the palate and polishing down the Cornas tannins. Good sense of freshness, liquorice and violets; it has finesse and no greenness. The tannins are robust but supple and should soften. From the lieu-dit Saint-Pierre on the plateau and an estate bought by Jaboulet in 1996, at the same time as Domaine de Roure.

A breathtaking Cornas! At first there are aromas of pepper, flint and graphite, but as it aerates the elderberry fruit expands and expands. Hardcore stone minerality and energetic tannins plus a wealth of fruit give it terrific tension. That drives the extremely long, dense and crisp finish. From the highest altitude vineyards in the appellation at over 400 meters above sea level, and therefore the last vineyard this producer picks. From organically grown grapes. Drink or hold.

Cask sample. Cola and raw meat on the nose, some balsamic notes and spice. The palate is fresh and surprisingly bright and vibrant. The tannins are firm and still need plenty of time, the oak is there in the background. Good intensity of fruit as well, some stony, earthy and iodine notes. Attractive, both dense and elegant at the same time! (AC)

The 2022 Cornas Domaine de Saint Pierre easily outperforms the 2021 I tasted last year. Its ripe black cherry, pencil shaving, crushed violet and cedar aromas introduce it. Full-bodied, savory and structured, the 2022 is a very good Cornas, closing with afterglow on the complex finish. That said, it demands at least three more years before starting to unleash its full potential.