Domaine Du Pegau CdP Cuvee Reservee 2012 (750ML)

94 WA / 93 VM

One of my favorite wines, the 2012 Chteauneuf du Pape Cuvee R'serv'e is a classic. Beautiful on the nose, with notions of ground pepper, wild herbs, minerality and smoked plum and dark fruit, its medium to full-bodied, nicely concentrated and has plenty of tannin that comes through on the finish. Similar in style to a lighter-weight 2010, drink this beauty anytime over the coming 12-15 years. Jeb Dunnuck, Wine Advocate

Opaque ruby. Heady aromas of black and blue fruits, potpourri and Indian spices, with a smoky element emerging with air. Taut and sharply focused on entry, then fleshier and broader in the mid-palate, offering vibrant boysenberry and black raspberry flavors with hints of candied violet, smoked meat and licorice. Finishes spicy and long, with repeating florality and slow-building tannins. Josh Raynolds, Vinous Media

A dark, alluring style, with tobacco, chestnut and alder notes surrounding a core of blackberry, plum and cherry fruit. Lots of garrigue details line the finish, showing a warm paving stone hint. Should settle in nicely in the cellar. Best from 2016 through 2023. 6,670 cases made. - James Molesworth, Wine Spectator