The vineyards of the Northern Rhône Valley have been planted since Roman times and are still today the source of some of the world’s best wines. Most famous Appellations in the area are Hermitage, Condrieu, Cornas, Saint Joseph, and Crozes Hermitage. The predominant grapes are Syrah for the reds and Viognier and Marsanne for the whites.

Our ABC wine team has visited the area on numerous occasions in search of new and exciting wines; a most memorable experience was our visit with Jean-Luc Colombo in Cornas.

Jean-Luc and his wife Anne are some of the most respected vintners in the Cornas Appellation and the area in general. They are the only husband and wife recipients of France’s highest distinction, “La Legion d’Honneur” for their achievements and contributions in agricultures.

Colombo’s Syrah vineyards are located on steep, rocky slopes; they are farmed organically; no irrigation is allowed by the Appellation.

Cornas is always 100% Syrah, the wines are full-bodied, with flavors of red and black fruit, crème de cassis and spicy, peppery notes, typical for the Syrah; they can benefit from at least 5-6 years of aging in the bottle.

At ABC Fine Wine and Spirits we currently have Jean-Luc’s 2007 Cornas Terres  Brûlées from 60 year-old vines; 2007 is considered one of the best vintages in the area for the past few decades. Also check out Colombo’s Côtes du Rhône red and white and his refreshing rosé from Cape Bleue above the bay of Marseilles.

Taste it and let us know how you like it!

Atanas Nechkov, Central Florida Wine Supervisor