Blog / Rhone

Lionnet - Cornas

Lionnet is a 3.8 hectares domaine run by a family that has been growing grapes in Cornas since 1575.

In 2003 Corine Lionnet took over the domaine after her father retirement, and with the help of her husband Ludovic Izerable converted the vineyards into organic farming and since 2009 is certified organic by Ecocert.

The wines are produced from 5 parcels of old vines planted in Granitic soils at 300m of altitude, and made in a very traditional way with the Syrah fermented with 100% whole cluster in concrete tanks and aged in demi muids.

These are very pure Syrah, with an intense floral, and black fruits notes, silky tannins, impressive concentration and a floral infused finish.

Very limited production.

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Raymond Usseglio et Fils

Currently managed by Stephane Usseglio, he is 3rd generation of the family to work in the domaine. The estate founded in 1931 by Francis Usseglio, now farms around 30 hectares of vineyards spread between Chateauneuf du Pape, Cotes du Rhone, Lirac and Ventoux, all certified organic and biodynamic.

In the Chateauneuf du Pape appellation the domaine owns over 33 parcels of vines farmed in a diversity of soils and exposures (sand and pebbles), and a considerable amount are grown in the famous "La Crau" lieux dit.

Most of the wines are produced with fruit from very old vines, with the Chateauneuf du Pape Cuvee Imperiale being made exclusively from vines that are over 100 years old.

Every Chateauneuf cuvee has its own identity, and different methods of fermentation and elevage, varying between cement, barrels, demi muids and terracotta amphoras.

Stephane also produce a unique Chateauneuf Blanc made from 100% Roussane and a rare Chateauneuf Blanc made from 100% Clairette only bottled in magnums.

The domaine is considered one of the best of the appellation, producing exceptional wines in every vintage.

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