Jean-Luc Colombo : Terres Brûlées 2015

Plush in feel, with layers of dark fig, blueberry and blackberry reduction leading the way, inlaid with light charcoal and bay leaf accents that emerge steadily through the finish. Ends with a tug of tar. Best from 2020 through 2035. 1,300 cases made, 1,000 cases imported.

There is a robust oak influence here and a touch of volatile acidity, but then a generous savoury note and a beguiling whisper of sweetness at the back with a linear, seductive finish.

Inky ruby. A complex, deeply perfumed bouquet evokes ripe boysenberry, cherry liqueur, potpourri and olive, along with an exotic spice quality that builds with air. Displays impressive energy to the deep-pitched black and blue fruit and floral pastille flavors thanks to an undercurrent of minerality that builds in the glass. Finishes sweet and very long, leaving floral pastille and cola notes behind.

The 2015 Cornas Terres Brûlées comes from various parcels in the appellation and was brought up just like the single-parcel releases, spending 23 months in 15% new barrels. Its deep purple color is followed by fabulous notes of black raspberries, toasted spice, bouquet garni, and bay leaf. Deep, unctuous, and concentrated, with sweet tannins, it's a pleasure-bent effort that will be better with short-term cellaring and remain deep for a decade or more.

More breadth and depth than la-louvée, with well-polished, elegant tannins, a deep palate and great harmony; it will age beautifully.

Pristine, primary black-plum and cherry aromas intensify on the palate of this wine, gaining richer tones of blueberry and raspberry preserve. It's a full-bodied, flush wine marked by hints of spice, earth and thyme, along with soft, feathery tannins. Crisp acidity lends balance to the finish.