2012 Chateauneuf du Pape Pure
Estimated value
Buying options
Tasting notes
The 2012 Châteauneuf-du-Pape Pure from the young superstar Julien Barrot is a pure, seamless, heavenly expression of Grenache. Coming from a single parcel located in the heart of the appellation, near the intersection of the Grand Pierre, Rayas and Pointu lieux-dits, it was partially destemmed and is brought up in a single foudre. The 2012 is a classic wine in every way, offering loads of kirsch and blackberry fruits, notes of pepper, garrigue, and spice, full-bodied richness, and a seamless, balanced personality that makes it a joy to drink. Like most 2012s, it’s already accessible yet will evolve nicely on its balance and overall harmony.
Critic scores
Average Score
Jeb Dunnuck
Jancis Robinson MW
More reviews and scores
Showing beautifully (a lot of 2012s have put on weight since I tasted them on release), the 2012 Chateauneuf du Pape Pure has plenty of similarities to the 2010, with terrific purity and freshness in its blackberry, kirsch, currants and ground herb-driven bouquet. Full-bodied, concentrated and layered, it's perfectly balanced and never puts a foot wrong. It will benefit from short-term cellaring, but should be approachable at an earlier age than the 2010, and have 20 years of overall longevity.
Glass-staining ruby. High-pitched red berry and Asian spice aromas open with air and pick up suggestions of candied flowers and smoky minerals. Stains the palate with intense, sharply delineated black raspberry and bitter cherry flavors that are lifted by a mineral element. At once vibrant and seamless, finishing with outstanding thrust, supple tannins and a whiplash of sweet red fruit.