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. Jeb Dunnuck, The Wine Advocate.
