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91 WA.
"The straight 2012 Châteauneuf du Pape is made from 80% Grenache, 17% Syrah and 3% Mourvedre, from the La Gardiole and Palestor lieux-dits, that was aged 12 months in a combination of small barrels, foudre and stainless steel. Kirsch, dried garrigue, cocoa powder and brown spice all come together nicely in this medium to full-bodied, supple, downright sexy 2012. While the initial impression had me thinking it's best consumed earlier rather than later, it showed more structure and length with time in the glass, so my bet is that it will have upwards of a decade of longevity. Domaine du Grand Tinel is run with considerable success by the Jeaune Family, with consulting advice from Philippe Cambie. A large estate, it covers over 130 acres spread throughout the appellation. They produce an outstanding white as well as two Chateauneufs in most vintage, a classic cuvee made from mostly Grenache, and the cuvee Alexis Establet, which is 100% Grenache from ancient vintage. Elevage here is a mix of modern and traditional, with the grapes completely destemmed and aging occurring mostly in foudre, with some stainless steel and small barrels." Wine Advocate #215, Oct 2014 |