(94-95 points) Inky ruby. Assertive, smoke-accented aromas of ripe black and blue fruits, candied flowers, olive and exotic spices show excellent clarity and mineral lift. Sweet, pliant and lush on the palate, offering concentrated blackberry, cherry liqueur, smoky bacon and violet pastille flavors that show a peppery note on the back half. The impressively long, youthfully tannic finish shows fine detail and leaves behind repeating smoke and floral notes.

The 2020 Cornas Chante Perdrix comes from a mix of parcels and was brought up in a mix of new and used oak. It's another stunning 2020 from this estate that has so much to love. Revealing a deep plum hue as well as classic Cornas notes of red and black fruits (black cherries, fresh figs), smoked meats, leather, bay leaf, and graphite, it's rich, medium to full-bodied, has ripe tannins, and terrific overall balance. As with just about all 2020s, it has ample up-front charm and character, yet this beauty is going to evolve gracefully over the coming 15-20 years.

Dark and winey, with a well of steeped plum and smoked blackberry compote flavors layered with singed herb and vanilla-tinged cedar. The silky texture is backed up with some acid verve and cast iron mineral intensity. A modern-styled, attractive Cornas that shows good balance and tension. Drink now through 2035. 1,083 cases made, 97 cases imported.

(90-92 points) Tasted from barrel, the 2020 Cornas Chante Perdrix is typical for the cuvée, quite forward and soft, with lush raspberry and red plum notes. Medium to full-bodied, it's silky textured and lingers elegantly on the finish.- JC