Wine Advisor
Noel Verset, Cornas 1999
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Description
Tasting notes
Reviewed by: Stephen Tanzer
From an outstanding northern Rhône vintage, Verset's 1999 Cornas is still youthfully fruity and floral on the nose, offering aromas of fresh red berries, candied flowers and peppery spices, with a smoky mineral nuance slowly emerging. Juicy black raspberry and cola flavors expand in the mouth and pick up hints of cola and licorice, along with a touch of succulent herbs. Bitter chocolate and fruitcake notes emerge on the finish, which features dusty tannins and a jolt of juicy acidity. I'd hold onto this one for a while as it drinks like a much younger wine now and holds excellent promise.
About the Producer
Noël Verset is a revered name in the Cornas appellation of the Rhône Valley, where he began winemaking in 1931 alongside his father. He established his own estate in 1943 and remained active until the 2000 vintage. Renowned for his traditional practices, Verset produced a single cuvée that showcased the unique balance of his diverse terroirs. His meticulous methods included low yields, whole bunch fermentation, and aging in old demi-muid barrels. Verset's wines are celebrated for their elegance and ability to balance any vintage's excesses. He was instrumental in putting Cornas on the international wine map and influenced generations of winemakers.
