2009 Cornas Billes Noires

Dark violet color. Intense aromas and flavors of black raspberry and candied flowers, with a bright mineral overtone. Vibrant and precise on the palate, offering a suave blend of depth and energy. Closes on a sweet note of dark berry preserves, leaving smoke and floral notes behind.

The 2009 Cornas Domaine du Coulet Billes Noires possesses a black/purple color, terrific fruit, an unctuous, thick texture, abundant roasted meat, black fruit, damp earth and forest floor characteristics as well as a hint of flowers in the background. It is more accessible than the backward, massive 2009 Cornas Les Terrasses du Serre, but even the latter wine has a certain seductive appeal. Both of these 2009s should drink well for 10-15 years. One rarely sees the wines of Matthieu Barret in the marketplace, but these two outstanding 2009 Cornas deserve a serious look. Importer: Jeff Wellburn Selections, Van Nuys, CA; tel. (818) 780-4446

Much better than Les Terrasses. Fresh cherry fruit, just a little lifted. That same bizarre sweaty, smoked-meat taste. Seems to be something odd here though I don’t think it is Brett. (JH)