A blend of 50% tank-aged Grenache and 30% Syrah and 20% Mourvedre aged in barrel, the 2012 Cotes du Ventoux Fayard (which was the only 2012 I tasted out of bottle) is a gorgeous effort that gives up impressive notes of black raspberry, flowers, violets and pepper. Perfumed, complex and with the hallmark purity of the fruit that all of this estate’s wines show, this medium-bodied, elegant and lively effort has good acidity and a clean finish. Enjoy it over the coming 4-5 years. Another reference point in the Ventoux, Domaine de Fondreche is run by the driven and passionate Sebastien Vincenti and Nanou Barthelemy. Located on a plateau on the eastern side of the Cotes du Ventoux region, this domaine has a unique terroir and produces a bevy of high-quality wines that emphasize purity and freshness, without ever skimping on fruit or texture. Importer: Robert Kacher Selections, New York, NY; tel. (212) 239-1275