2018 Alain Voge 'Les Chailles', Cornas, Northern Rhone

Alain Voge is one of the famous names in Cornas. The domaine became famous when Alain joined his father's smallholding in the late 1950's moving it from polyculture to focusing exclusively on wine. He became the Cornas appelation's greatest advocate, championing its reputation internationally as well as at home. During the 50 years spent at the domaine, Alain worked meticulously: replanting abandoned slopes, regenerating old-vine Syrah and using traditional winemaking techniques to produce increasingly noteworthy wines. Following Alain's retirement, Alberic Mazoyer (who worked for Chapoutier) took over as co-owner and winemaker, moving the domaine to biodynamic practices. Why do we like it?