2012 Chateauneuf du Pape

One of the blockbusters in the vintage, the inky-colored 2012 Châteauneuf du Pape La Reine des Bois – 80% Grenache, completely destemmed and aged 12 months in 80% stainless steel and 20% old barrels – offers fantastic richness and depth in its blackberry liqueur, graphite, wood smoke and crushed-rock-like aromas and flavors. An elegant, stylish and polished example of this cuvée, it comes closest in my mind to a lighter-weight 2010. Medium to full-bodied, concentrated and with fine tannin, it will drink well for 10-15 years.

Deep ruby. Fresh black and blue fruits on the highly perfumed nose, with floral and Indian spice nuances adding complexity. Sappy, penetrating and pure, with very good depth and energy to its boysenberry and cherry-cola flavors. At once rich and lively, finishing with impressive power, supple tannins and lingering spiciness.