2012 Chateauneuf du Pape
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Tasting notes
Ruby-red. Wild, smoke-tinged cherry and dark berry scents, with hints of smoked meat and musky herbs in the background. On the palate, bitter cherry and licorice flavors are sharpened by juicy acidity and a hint of cracked pepper. Shows a touch of gaminess and gripping tannins on the persistent finish.
Critic scores
Average Score
Jancis Robinson MW
Jeff Leve, The Wine Cellar Insider
More reviews and scores
The straight Châteauneuf du Pape (65% Grenache, 20% Syrah, 10% Mourvedre and 5% Cinsault) comes mostly from rolled-pebble terroir, yet also has a fair chunk from sandy soils as well. A beautiful traditional cuvee, it gives up notions of sweet black cherries, leafy herbs, olive and underbrush to go with a medium-bodied, elegant and textured mouthfeel. Leaning more toward the pretty, finesse-driven end of the spectrum, it drinks beautifully today, but will evolve nicely through 2024.
Bright ruby. Dark berry and cherry pit aromas are lifted by notes of fresh lavender and white pepper. Densely packed dark fruit flavors pick up a bitter edge with air, along with a touch of licorice. Pretty serious for a "basic" Chateauneuf, finishing with good energy and tannic grip.
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Product details
Grenache/ Garnacha , Syrah / Shiraz, Mourvedre/Monastrell/Mataro
Red
Dry