I had been waiting to try them side by side....and finally found the opportunity to enjoy them with a friend and a big supporter of all things Swiss! They were both by Jean-René Germanier and from the 2009 vintage. Previously I had only tried Cayas Syrah from this estate, so I tried to research a bit as to what to expect. Both red, and both wines had been aged in barriques for 12 months. I looked up "Wine Grapes" and it says that Humagne Rouge is actually Cornalin. I was left a bit confused for a little while. But to my rescue, I was really pleased to have this explained to me by one of the co-authors, Dr. José Vouillamoz.
I quote Dr. Vouillamoz's explanation here:
"Humagne by Jean-René Germanier is the Valais name for Cornalin from Aosta Valais, described in "Wine Grapes" under Cornalin.
Cornalin by Jean-René Germanier is different from Cornalin from Aosta Valais (hence from Humagne Rouge) and it is described under the name Rouge du Pays in "Wine Grapes". The unfortunate name change occurred in 1972 when it was decided in Valais to rename Rouge du Pays to Cornalin, by "borrowing" the name of an ancient variety from the neighbouring Aosta Valley. Hence the confusion."
Confusion indeed! But they were both really delicious, and very distinct in style!
2009 Humagne, Jean-René Germanier: Ruby core. Red berries, cherry, mineral, crushed stone with gamey and spicy nuances. Some hints of black pepper. Silky tannin. Soft acidity. Enjoy now and over next 4 - 5 years.
2009 Cornalin, Jean-René Germanier: Ruby core. Plum, dark cherry, blackberry, vanilla, smoke, gamey, herbs, sweet spice. Fine but robust structure, firm velvety tannin balanced with vibrant acidity. Enjoy now or over next 8-10 years.
Thank you Damien (Fleury) for introducing them to me: www.theswisswinestore.com
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