Les Collines de Laure Syrah, Jean Luc Colombo

The nose exhibits a wide range of small ripe red fruits with a spicy backdrop, fine tannins make for a harmonious wine that is rich and generous. Made from 100% Syrah, the wine is bottled after seven months and is not oak-aged. The bouquet shows redcurrant, raspberry and slight spice. The palate is elegant, refined and feminine notes of wild strawberry, raspberry and violet lead way to a balanced finish. The grapes for this wine are hand-harvested from Cornas vineyards, it's only because the vines are not over five years old that prevents it from being labelled Cornas: it has to be declassified. Jean-Luc fulfilled a childhood dream with his purchase of his first vineyard, Les Ruchets, a small parcel of old vines planted on a granite hillside overlooking the village of Cornas, and celebrated his first vintage in 1987. This was his starting point and now his thirty plus strong wine portfolio extends to all of the Rhône valley and beyond. Cornas is their speciality and is regarded by many as the appellation to look out for in the Rhône. The challenging, steep hillsides of pure granite, produce the finest 100% Syrah. All fruit is hand-picked, which is understandable once you’ve stood in one of the vineyards! Jean-Luc is also passionate about irrigation – there is none. Their vineyards in Cornas and Saint-Peray are fully organically certified. A good match with Beef or Mediterranean food.