From the well-known winemaking sisters Catherine Armenier and Sophie Estevenin who run their beloved Chateauneuf du Pape estate of Domaine de Marcoux, this 2012 Cotes du Rhone is made from 40 to 80-year-old Grenache (80%) and Mourvedre (20%) vines, and spent nine months in concrete tanks. The wine’s deep ruby color is followed by abundant aromas of cassis, pepper, lavender and licorice. A sleeper of the vintage, this medium-bodied, fruit-filled red could easily pass for a Chateauneuf du Pape. Drink it over the next 2-3 years. Importer: European Cellars, Eric Solomon, Charlotte, NC; tel. (704) 358-1565 ; www.europeancellars.com