2019 Magnum Cornas Allégorie Christophe Pichon

Winery: Maison Christophe Pichon

Grape Variety: Syrah

Region: Cornas, Northern Rhône Valley, Rhône Valley, France

Appellation: Cornas

Color: Red

Bottle Size: 1.5 L (Magnum)

Description

The 2019 Cornas “Allégorie” from Maison Christophe Pichon is a powerful and complex wine, hailing from a region where Syrah flourishes with depth and intensity. Sourced from steep, granite-rich slopes in Cornas, this wine represents the true essence of the terroir, capturing both the strength and richness of this iconic Northern Rhône vineyard. Presented in magnum format, which is ideal for aging fine wines, this wine will mature more slowly and harmoniously, enhancing its longevity and complexity.

Blend

This Cornas is made exclusively from Syrah, a variety that thrives on the granite soils of Cornas, where it produces highly concentrated wines with aromas of black fruits, spices, and a distinct minerality. The firm tannic structure is a hallmark of Syrah from this terroir.

Tasting Notes

Appearance: The wine displays a deep and dense color, almost black in hue, which is characteristic of Cornas.

Nose: The nose is intense and offers remarkable complexity. Ripe black fruits such as blackberry and cassis are interwoven with spicy notes of black pepper and licorice. Subtle hints of leather, tobacco, graphite, and garrigue, alongside touches of dark chocolate and cocoa, add layers of depth to this structured wine.

Palate: On the palate, the wine is full-bodied and powerful, with firm yet elegantly integrated tannins. Flavors of black fruits are complemented by spicy and smoky notes, resulting in a long, complex finish. The palate also reveals nuances of dark chocolate, licorice, and a marked minerality. The finish is persistent, showcasing the wine’s richness and the signature intensity of great Cornas.

Aging Potential

The 2019 “Allégorie” in magnum is a wine with excellent aging potential. It can be enjoyed now to appreciate its intensity and power, but it will develop further complexity over time. The magnum format allows for slower, more harmonious aging, offering a potential of 15 to 20 years, or even more. As the wine matures, the tannins will soften, and tertiary aromas such as forest floor, leather, and truffle will emerge.

Food Pairing

This generous and powerful Cornas pairs beautifully with robust, flavorful dishes:

Grilled or braised red meats (ribeye, roasted lamb)

Game meats in sauce (wild boar, venison)

Slow-cooked dishes (beef stew, braised pork shoulder)

Strong, aged cheeses (Époisses, Bleu d’Auvergne)

It also complements dishes like cassoulet or duck-based recipes perfectly.