2012 Chateau de Beaucastel Rouge, Chateauneuf-du-Pape 1×1.5L

Vinous 93

Opaque ruby. Potent, mineral-laced raspberry and cherry aromas are complicated by suave floral and spice qualities, picking up white pepper and cola accents with air. Seamless, round and sweet on the palate, offering intense red berry preserve and floral pastille flavors with a touch of allspice. Finishes sappy and precise, with velvety tannins and a late jolt of cherry compote. [Josh Raynolds, 04/01/2015]

Anticipated maturity: 2018-2030

Robert Parker 96

What I think might end up being the best Beaucastel since the 1990 or 2001, the 2012 Chateauneuf du Pape offers a full-bodied, decadent style to go with awesome black and blue fruits, garrigue, licorice, crushed flowers and violets. The purity here is truly something, and it has fabulous mid-palate concentration, building tannin and massive texture. Given all of the fruit and texture here, it will no doubt drink well in its youth, but it should still be alive and kicking after two decades as well. [Jeb Dunnuck, 01/10/2014]

Anticipated maturity: 2017-2032