2012 Domaine de la Mordoree, Chateauneuf-du-Pape, La Reine Des Bois 1x750ml

Vinous 94

Inky ruby. High-pitched red and dark berry scents are complemented by suggestions of candied flowers and smoky Indian spices. Silky, sweet and palate-staining, offering intense black raspberry and blueberry flavors and an exotic twist of blood orange. Manages to be both powerful and lithe, finishing with harmonious tannins and outstanding clarity and length. [Josh Raynolds, 04/01/2015]

Anticipated maturity: 2018-2029

Robert Parker 95

One of the blockbusters in the vintage, the inky-colored 2012 Chateauneuf du Pape La Reine des Bois – 80% Grenache, completely destemmed and aged 12 months in 80% stainless steel and 20% old barrels – offers fantastic richness and depth in its blackberry liqueur, graphite, wood smoke and crushed-rock-like aromas and flavors. An elegant, stylish and polished example of this cuvee, it comes closest in my mind to a lighter-weight 2010. Medium to full-bodied, concentrated and with fine tannin, it will drink well for 10-15 years. I’ve yet to see these guys put a foot wrong, and regardless of the vintage, they’re able to make superb wines. In addition to their terrific Chateauneuf du Papes, they continue to raise the quality of their Lirac and Cotes du Rhone releases. Also, while these all have the ability to drink nicely on release, they age beautifully. [Jeb Dunnuck, 01/10/2014]

Anticipated maturity: 2016-2027