Domaine Courbis La Sabarotte Cornas 2016 (750ml)

Lurid bright-rimmed purple. Intensely perfumed, oak-spiced aromas of dark berry liqueur, incense and potpourri are energized by a smoky mineral flourish. Sweet and seamless in the mouth, offering densely packed yet lithe blackberry and cherry-vanilla flavors along with suggestions of candied violet, spicecake and mocha. The floral and mineral notes resonate strongly on an impressively long, penetrating finish that features harmonious tannins. (JR) (6/2018)

94 pointsJeb Dunnuck

Lastly, the 2016 Cornas La Sabarotte is more plump, rounded, and sexy, with thrilling amounts of plum and black fruits, barbecue smoke, licorice, and spiced meat aromas and flavors. With moderate acidity, a massive, sexy texture, sweet tannins, and a great finish, its unquestionably one of the most flamboyant, sexy wines in the vintage.(12/2018)

94 pointsWine Spectator

Alluring, with a gilding of modern-style mocha and bacon-accented toast that melds perfectly into the core of gently steeped plum and blackberry fruit, while light black olive, anise and juniper notes add range and texture through the finish. (JM)(11/2018)

93 pointsDecanter

Matured in 85% new oak barriques for 16 months, this is full-bodied, rich and polished. The fruit is very ripe and intense, and the tannins plentiful, with little in terms of grain or fibre to the texture – the effect is glossy and smooth, and it handles its new oak well, only making itself known on the finish. (MW)