My favorite of the 2012s, Brotte’s 2012 Châteauneuf du Pape Domaine Barville Optimum is made only in top vintages and checks in as a blend of 80% Grenache, 15% Syrah and 5% Mourvedre. Like the Secret Barville, it spent 18 months in Burgundy barrels prior to bottling. Beautiful on all counts, it exhibits classy kirsch, blackberry, dried flowers, garrigue and hints of vanilla bean to go with a medium to full-bodied, layered, sexy and sweetly fruited profile on the palate. While I love this for its fruit and texture, it still stays nicely focused, balanced and even elegant. It can be enjoyed anytime over the coming decade.
Jeb Dunnuck, October 2014