2012 Chateau La Nerthe, Cadettes, Chateauneuf-du-Pape

Dark ruby. Exotically perfumed scents of candied dark berries, vanilla, woodsmoke and incense. Showing a strong dose of oak today but there's plenty of ripe blackberry and blueberry fruit to go along with it. Supple and seamless in texture, finishing with outstanding thrust, supple tannins and lingering sweetness.

Also slightly more mid-weight than I remember, yet still more than outstanding, the 2012 Chateauneuf du Pape Cuvee des Cadettes (39% Syrah, 37% Grenache, 22% Mourvedre and the rest assorted varieties, aged in new French oak) has classy notes of cassis, toast, vanilla bean and roasted meats. Possessing fabulous purity, medium to full-bodied richness and moderate overall depth and concentration, it can be enjoyed anytime over the coming decade. While this needs more flesh, it should still evolve gracefully on its overall balance.