2012 Petit Gravet Aine

A strong mineral element appears in both the aromatics and flavor spectrum of this wine. Dense purple, its blueberry and raspberry fruit, loads of earthy notes, medium body, and moderate tannin suggest a wine to cellar for another 4-5 years then drink over the following 15 or more. This is a classic yet progressively made wine. It will be difficult to find, emanating from this six-acre estate planted with 80% Cabernet Franc and 20% Merlot.

One of the sleepers of the vintage, the 2012 Petit Gravet Aîné is deep, powerful and beautifully concentrated. Intense Cabernet Franc-inflected aromas soar out of the glass, while beams of tannin and acidity give the wine its sense of proportion. Tightly wound today, the 2012 appears to be holding back much of its potential, so it is best cellared for at least a few years. This is a superb Saint-Emilion from proprietor Catherine Papon-Nouvel and one of the under the radar gems of the year. The property, which lies next to Canon La Gaffèliere is planted to 80% Cabernet Franc and 20% Merlot, pretty much the inverse of what is the norm here. Naturally, the heavy presence of Franc is felt in the wine. Jan 2016, www.vinous.com, Drink 2017-2032

A strong mineral element appears in both the aromatics and flavor spectrum of this wine. Dense purple, its blueberry and raspberry fruit, loads of earthy notes, medium body, and moderate tannin suggest a wine to cellar for another 4-5 years then drink over the following 15 or more. This is a classic yet progressively made wine. It will be difficult to find, emanating from this six-acre estate planted with 80% Cabernet Franc and 20% Merlot. Apr 2015, www.robertparker.com