A brilliant effort, the 2012 Chateauneuf du Pape La C?te Ronde has some sweet, chocolatey nuances to go with loads of cassis, black raspberry, tobacco leaf and wild herb-like aromas and flavors. Possessing a big, full-bodied profile on the palate, with a terrific, broad, expansive texture, it stays Proven?al and has loads of character. It needs a few years to round into form, but will have 15+ years of ultimate longevity.