Viniou Reviews
The Domaine Alain Voge Cornas “Les Vieilles Vignes” 2013 is an exceptional red wine originating from the northern sector of the Rhône Valley, known as the “septentrionale.” Crafted exclusively from Syrah, the hallmark varietal of Cornas AOC, this cuvée is sourced from old vines (“vieilles vignes”), which impart remarkable depth and complexity. The 2013 vintage, marked by its slightly cooler weather, has allowed for a wine that marries concentration with finesse, offering a beautifully structured palate. Alain Voge, a leading advocate of biodynamic viticulture in the region, ensures meticulous vineyard and cellar work, with fermentation carried out traditionally, followed by ageing in carefully selected barrels. This results in a wine of notable purity, balancing vibrant black fruit, black olive, and spicy undertones with mineral notes and a silky, persistent finish.
Cornas is firmly situated on the right bank of the Rhône, just south of the famous Hermitage hill. The region is celebrated for its steep terraced vineyards composed of decomposed granite soils, called “gore,” which contribute to the fresh minerality and tension in the wines. Thanks to the continental climate, with warm summers and cool, mistral-influenced winters, Syrah ripens fully, producing intensely flavoured, powerful reds. The legacy of Cornas can be traced back centuries, yet its acclaim soared in the late 20th century, in part due to dedicated domaines like Alain Voge, who championed both tradition and innovation.
For food pairing, this Cornas is ideal with robust meat dishes such as slow-braised lamb shank, roast venison, or a classic French daube de boeuf. Its bold structure and spicy complexity also complement hard cheeses like aged Comté or Saint-Nectaire, as well as mushroom dishes incorporating wild herbs or truffles—dishes reflective of the Rhône’s rich culinary heritage.
To fully appreciate its nuanced aromatics and elegant tannic frame, serve this wine at 16-18°C. Decanting one to two hours before tasting will help the wine open up, revealing layers of fruit, spice, and earthy depth. While drinking well now, it also promises further development with a few more years in the cellar.
