Cave des Amandiers : Cornalin 2018

A Swiss wine with remarkable ageing potential and beautifully mature aromas

The estate

With its vines that in some places grow at close to a thousand metres in altitude, the Cave des Amandiers embodies the fulfilment of a dream. Founded in 2008 by Alexandre Delétraz, this treasure trove was created out of a daring project – to restore an estate in the middle of abandoned mountains. A successful gamble, since it now includes 8 hectares of wonderful vines, acquired from more than 70 different owners, thus unifying more than 200 plots throughout the Valais vineyards. Today, the Cave des Amandiers invites you to discover the essence of a unique terroir, with grape varieties and wines as singular as they are complex.

The vineyard

True to the mountainous landscape of Switzerland, the vineyards of the Valais are illustrated by small stone terraces and impressive steep slopes. This particular environment and the unique climate that influences it allow the grapes to reach optimal maturity. Indeed, the Foehn, a warm wind from the Alps, plays an important role in the development of the grapes.

Winemaking and ageing

Vinification is initiated under the influence of indigenous yeasts and takes place in stainless steel tanks for 3 to 6 weeks with 50% of the whole crop. The wine is then aged for 18 to 22 months in 500 litre demi-muids with ageing of one year in the bottle. Cornalin 2018 is unfined and unfiltered so as not to alter its quality.

Blend

Cornalin (100%)

Characteristics and tasting tips for Cornalin 2018 from Cave des Amandiers

Tasting

Nose
Fine graphite and licorice notes dominate the aromatic framework of this singular wine, ultimately underlined by lovely, slightly woody aromas.

Palate
Powerful and full-bodied, with fine tannins that give this wine a sense of character. A surprising bottle to wait a few more years in the cellar for.

Service and storage

Cornalin 2018 will reveal all its aromatic character up to and beyond 2028. For the best tasting, serve between 16 and 18 degrees.