A step up over the traditional cuvee, the 2012 Gigondas Les Hauts de Montmirail checks in as a blend of 50% Grenache, 30% Syrah and 20% Mourvèdre. Coming from higher elevation plots and clay/limestone soils, its inky purple color is followed by a fabulous perfume of black raspberry, currants, leather, scorched earth and licorice. Beautifully concentrated, with a seamless, layered textured and building tannin, it has awesome purity of fruit and a terrific finish. It will drink nicely over a decade.