Moving to the non-Cornas offerings, the 2012 VDF Les Vins des Amis comes from Syrah vines planted along the flats (near the road) in Cornas. Offering gorgeous Syrah characteristics of plum, black raspberry, underbrush and spice, this soft, supple beauty doesn’t have the depth or complexity of the Cornas releases, but certainly gives you some Clape style and love. Enjoy it over the coming couple of years. Another reference point in Cornas, the Domaine of Auguste Clape, which is now run by Auguste’s talented son, Pierre-Marie (who started working at the domaine in 1989), is staunchly traditional in style, and the wines see no new oak, no destemming and aging all in ancient foudre. He produces two cuvees from Cornas, his Renaissance, which comes from the estate’s younger vines (50 years in age), and the top wine, which is labeled simply Cornas. Both are textbook examples of the appellation, with the Renaissance being more approachable early on. In addition, he releases a Saint Peray (Marsanne), and a Vin de France and Cotes du Rhone, both of which comes from vines near Cornas and are well worth seeking out. Importer: Kermit Lynch Wine Merchant, Berkeley, CA; tel. (510) 524-1524