2012 Châteauneuf-du-Pape Rouge Amiral G Château de Vaudieu

A new cuvee that was introduced in 2010 (which is incredible), the 2012 Châteauneuf du Pape Amiral G is up with the crème of the vintage. Made from 100% Grenache, completely destemmed, and aged 18 months in new demi-muids, it possesses a singular style in its sweet bouquet of black raspberry, strawberry, red licorice, rose petal and garrigue. Full-bodied and voluptuous on the palate, with beautiful concentration, no hard edges and building, finely polished tannin, this awesome Châteauneuf can be consumed anytime over the coming decade or more.

Saturated ruby. Sexy, expansive red berry liqueur and floral pastille aromas are complicated by suggestions of cola, mocha and star anise. Juicy, focused and pure, conveying excellent verve to its mineral-laced black raspberry and cherry-cola flavors. The wine's mineral element adds lift and precision to the long, subtly tannic finish, which leaves spice and candied lavender notes behind. - Josh Raynolds