Coming from the oldest vines of the estate and one of the best vineyards in the world for Syrah, the 2012 Cornas Reynard is a massive, thick and unctuous effort that's bursting at the seams with notions of crème de cassis, crushed violets, smoked game and incredible minerality. Just a sensational Cornas that surpasses what was achieved in 2009 and 2010, this full-bodied, concentrated and structured effort has the fruit to be enjoyable now (this is a common trait of the vintage), yet has the depth, richness and balance to evolve for over two decades. It doesn't come cheap, but it's up there with some of the finest Syrahs made.

Vivid purple. Deeply pitched black and blue fruit aromas are complicated by candied violet, smoky minerals, incense and licorice. Broad, fleshy and concentrated, offering palate-staining, deeply concentrated cherry, boysenberry and floral pastille flavors accented by Indian spices and minerals. Rich and fleshy but surprisingly lithe, finishing with superb clarity and length and fine-grained tannins that sneak in late. This is one of the great wines of this vintage and a must-buy for fans of Allemand, Cornas, Syrah, or just wine in general.