Les Halos de Jupiter Costières de Nîmes 2012

Deep ruby. Expressive aromas of musky blackberry, cassis and floral oils. Plush, pliant and sweet, with smoky blueberry and bitter chocolate flavors complicated by zesty minerals and licorice. Finishes very long and spicy, with smooth, even tannins and a whiplash of candied lavender. This has the concentration and structure to reward aging but can also be enjoyed now. Most of this fruit was grown in the northern sector of the region, at Cabrieres, and 10% was grown near Vaudieu. Score - 92. (Josh Raynolds, International Wine Cellar, Jan./Feb. 2014)