Paul Jaboulet Aine 'Les Grandes Terrasses', Cornas

A full-bodied and generous Cornas, with inviting red fruit, sweet spice and sandalwood aromas. Velvety tannins supported by freshness impart fine balance

Producer Note

Domaines Paul Jaboulet Aîné was founded in 1834 and cultivates the iconic terroirs from the northern Rhône Valley across seven appellations. Family owned by the Frey family since 2006, talented winemaker Caroline Frey and her team implement heroic viticulture techniques on the unique, heritage landscapes. Following a long tradition in preserving and working the land, the Frey family are pioneers in biodiversity, with a nine hectare wildlife reserve and ecosystem preservation efforts. Since 2016, the vineyards have been certified AB organic and since 2021 the entire vineyard has been cultivated biodynamically and with a regenerative approach. The variety of soils and multitude of terroirs shape the distinctive character of their wines. Caroline is dedicated to crafting exceptional wines following a philosophy that when the grape varieties are in perfect harmony with the terroir, they reveal their finest expression. These are exquisite wines which beautifully reflect the nuances of their origins.

Vineyard

Cornas is a small appellation, located south of St Joseph and on the west side of the river. The name “Cornas” comes from an old Celtic dialect term, meaning “burnt land”, because on the steep terraces which characterise the south facing vineyards, the temperatures are significantly higher than those in nearby appellations. This cuvée, Cornas ‘Les Grandes Terrasses’ owes its name to the extremely steep terraces supported by small, dry-stone walls which overlook the Rhône Valley. The parcels are located on decomposed granite called ‘gore’ on the south-facing slopes of the hill behind the village of Cornas. The vines are aged between 20 to 60 years and yield 35 hl/ha.

Winemaking

The Syrah grapes were hand-picked and sorted, before being 100% de-stemmed and crushed. The maceration lasted for three to four weeks with daily pump overs. The wine spent 12 months in French oak barrels, 20% of which were new.

Tasting Note

A full-bodied and generous Cornas, with inviting red fruit, sweet spice and sandalwood aromas. Velvety tannins supported by freshness impart fine balance.

Grape

Syrah 100%