2012 Chateau Fonsalette Cuvée Syrah
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Tasting notes
More peppery and structured, the 2012 Fonsalette Cotes du Rhone Cuvee Syrah gives up complex aromatics (black pepper, blackberry, spice, rosemary and sappy herbs), medium to full-bodied richness and a great finish. A handful of years in the cellar are warranted here and it will have 15 years of total longevity. Most likely needing little introduction, these singular efforts are made by Emmanuel Reynaud from his tiny plot of pure sandy soils located near the center of the Chateauneuf du Pape appellation. Surrounded on all sides by forest (which is unique) and a cool terroir, harvest here goes very late and these wines never lack for power or richness. Importer: Martine’s Wines, Novato, CA; tel. (415) 883-0400
Critic scores
Jeb Dunnuck, Wine Advocate
About the producer
Ch. Rayas is a cult name in Châteauneuf-du-Pape. The wines – pure, silken expressions of Grenache with distinctive perfume – are revered for their singularity and fiercely collected. Made by Emmanuel Reynaud and renowned for their ageability, they have become some of the region's most sought-after.