2012 Cotes du Rhone

Also a rock-solid, value-priced offering, the 2012 Cotes du Rhone Villages (50% Grenache, and the rest Syrah, Mourvedre and Carignan aged in a combination of barrel and concrete tank) has a big, rich and concentrated profile, with plenty of licorice, graphite and mulled berry fruit on both the nose and palate. Medium to full-bodied, rich and layered, it’s potentially outstanding and will deliver loads of pleasure over the coming 4-5 years. Drink now-2018. Run by the brother and sister team of Daniel and Christine Chaussy, this brilliant estate covers just over 20 acres in Chateauneuf du Pape, most of which are in the northern part. They produce up to three Chateauneufs in top vintages and one white. In addition, their Vin de France and Cotes du Rhone Villages are always superb and sell for a song. Note: there was no Cuvee du Quet or le Tinto produced in 2011, and no Tinto in 2012. Importer: Alain Junguenet, Wines of France, Mountainside, NJ; tel. (908) 654-6173