2012 Châteauneuf-du-Pape, Vieilles Vignes, Domaine de la Charbonnière, Rhône

The Vieilles Vignes is made up of 95% Grenache and 5% Mourvèdre, matured in a ratio of 70/30 in cement and demi-muid for 14 months. The ancient vines are mainly located on the Crau plateau. Evocative aromas of scrubland and laurel are followed by an intense and finely structured palate in this, the most powerful member of the Charbonnière clan.
Simon Field MW, Rhône Wine Buyer

Last year – 2013 – was an auspicious year for the likeable Maret family, as they celebrated their centenary. In 2013 Monsieur Maret went into formal retirement although he was far from absent during my tastings! Meanwhile his daughters Véronique and Caroline have been especially successful with their first full vinification: in 2012 they had fewer of the Grenache ‘coulure’  issues which have been evident in both 2011 and, to a lesser extent, in 2013