Juline Châteauneuf-du-Pape 2012

Autard's smallest production cuvée, the 2012 Châteauneuf du Pape Juline is made from equal parts Grenache and Syrah that was fermented and aged 20 months in new French oak barrels. My favorite in the lineup, it has a wonderfully complete, balanced and seamless style to go with tons of dark fruit, leafy herbs, mint and spice. Similar to the La Côte Ronde, yet slightly more polished and lively, it's a smoking example of a modern styled Châteauneuf that remains balanced, Provençal and beautifully drinkable. It will have 15 years or more of longevity. Drink: 2015-2027. Score - 94. (Jeb Dunnuck, erobertparker.com, Oct. 2014)