Châteauneuf du Pape, Cuvée Laurence, 2012
Smoother and more alluring than the equivalent 2012 Cuvee reserve, thanks to the extended ageing in cask, but also a noticeably more profound wine. Oozing sweet, dark, full velvety fruit. Brambles, plums and bullace mixed with sap, leather and black pepper spice. Clearly a rich vintage with a dark colour and deep but seductive flavours. Cuvee Laurence is the result of one cask of Cuvee Reserve being singled out by Laurence Feraud for extended ageing, which amounts to an extra two years in large oak foudres. This is only done in certain vintages. The blend is therefore the same as that of Cuvee Reservee, approximately 80% Grenache with the rest made up of Syrah, Mourvedre, Counoise and a smattering of the other permitted varieties. Approximately 600 cases were made.
critic reviews
Previously unreviewed by The Wine Advocate, the 2012 Chateauneuf du Pape Cuvee Laurence is 80% Grenache, 6% Syrah, 4% Mourvedre and the balance a mix of other authorized varieties. After approximately four years in foudre, it shows intense scents of leather, cherries, apricots and cocoa. It's full-bodied and supple, approachable now but capable of aging for up to two decades. It's a terrific example of this cuvee and how Grenache can benefit from extended elevage.