At a glance

Producer

Thierry Allemand

Region

Cornas, Northern Rhône, France

Grape variety

Syrah

Wine type

Red

Body

Full-bodied and Bold

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

$90-$120

Tasting profile

Dense blackberry, black pepper, smoked meat, hints of lavender and violets with mineral backbone.

Evolution: Will develop more complex tertiary notes of leather, truffle, forest floor, and deeper spice.

At peak: Silky tannins, balanced acidity, integrated oak, profound complexity.

Structure

Acidity

Medium-high, fresh

Tannins

High and grippy

Alcohol

14.5%

Aging potential

25-35+ years

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2028 to 2052

Optimal window

2026 to 2055

Current status

Approaching early maturity, still developing complexity

Current condition

Tight fruit structure with firm tannins; primary dark fruits and floral notes building

Thierry Allemand's Cornas Reynard is a terroir-driven Syrah with great tannic structure and acidity from a warm vintage. The 2020 benefits from high quality fruit and careful biodynamic practices, allowing it to age gracefully over decades, gaining complexity and softness in long-term cellaring.

Food pairing

Pairs beautifully with grilled lamb, game meats, hearty stews, and aged cheeses.

Serving

Serving temperature

16-18°C / 61-64°F

Decant

Yes (1-2 hours) — To soften robust tannins and allow aromatic complexity to open up.

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 9/10

Thierry Allemand farms biodynamically, uses minimal intervention winemaking, natural yeasts, and manual harvesting. Packaging uses minimal weight bottles and recycled materials.

The producer's commitment to biodynamics, organic practices, reduced chemical inputs, and energy conservation practices place this wine among highly sustainable choices. Although exported internationally, the limited production and natural approach help mitigate carbon footprint relative to larger commercial operations.