Tardieu Laurent : Coteaux 2012

Domaine Tardieux-Laurent Cornas wines come from single-grape slopes of Chaillots, Patou, and Eygats. Old Syrah vines, from 60 to 100 years old, are well-integrated in the shiny deep ruby hued 2012 Cornas. The nose exudes roasted notes and vanilla, as well as cherry, black pepper and violet. The palate is dense and concentrated, with a hint of severity that requires a few years in the cellar before peaking.

Wine Advocate-Parker :
More burly and muscular, the 2012 Cornas Coteaux (couteaux means slope) dishes out big blackberry and raspberry fruit, graphite, smoked meat and tinges of mint to go with full-bodied richness and depth on the palate. The concentration and underlying structure here give this a slightly more backward feel, yet it opens nicely in the glass and has the fruit and texture to be enjoyable even now. It will have 10-15 years of longevity.