A step up over the traditional cuvee, the 2012 Châteauneuf du Pape Vieilles Vignes is made from 70% Grenache, 20% Syrah and 10% Mourvedre, all destemmed, that was aged 60% in demi-muid and 40% in tank. One of the more voluptuous, textured and layered efforts, it offers fabulous minerality in its crushed rock, ground herbs, mulled blackberry and kirsch-driven aromas and flavors. It has a rocking core of sweet fruit, integrated acidity and plenty of tannin, all of which say it’s going to have a long life. I’d give bottles another year or so and plan on consuming them through 2027. - Jeb Dunnuck