Château Rayas 2012 - Châteauneuf-du-Pape Reserve

Château Rayas - Châteauneuf-du-Pape Réserve 2012

The 2012 Vintage: Delicacy and Precision

The 2012 vintage is a favorite among Rayas enthusiasts who prefer elegance to extraction. It falls into the category of wines that are "light on their feet." Made entirely from Grenache grown on the estate's fine sandy soils, the 2012 Rayas offers exceptional purity, great finesse, and an incredibly aromatic character. It is a wine that excels in its balance and silky texture.

The Unique Terroir of Grenache

The 2012 Rayas embodies the magic of the estate: a surprisingly pale color and a bouquet that confounds lovers of classic Châteauneuf. Emmanuel Reynaud's minimal-intervention winemaking (gentle maceration, aging in old oak casks) aims to preserve the pure fruit of the Grenache, avoiding heaviness and excessive alcohol. The result is a wine for contemplation, with a complexity that unfolds slowly.

Tasting Notes: Texture and Subtlety

The 2012 Rayas is a wine that is entering its phase of full maturity, while retaining remarkable freshness:

• Color: Light ruby red, with slightly amber highlights.
• Nose: An enchanting bouquet with aromas of wild strawberry, cherry, Rooibos tea, potpourri, garrigue and a touch of orange peel.
• Palate: The texture is silky, almost creamy, supported by very fine tannins. The wine is delicate yet profound, with exceptional aromatic intensity. The fresh acidity ensures a very long finish, with floral and earthy notes.

Critics' Reviews (Scores)

The 2012 Rayas is very highly rated by critics, who highlight its unique and refined character:

• CellarTracker Community: 96-97/100 ("The third Rayas I've had... and arguably the best. So complex and yet so drinkable and light on its feet.")
• Robert Parker (WA): 92/100 (Rated at a very early stage)

Bottle Condition: Specific Information

The bottle is in excellent condition: perfect fill level (or slightly in the neck) and intact capsule. Please note that the labels have some cosmetic imperfections (scratches and signs of natural cellaring) as you can see in the photos.

Food & Wine Pairing and Service

Serve at 16-17°C, ideally in large glasses. This wine can be opened 1 to 2 hours beforehand, but decanting is generally not recommended for Rayas, so as not to overwhelm its delicate aromas. Pairing suggestions:

• Duck fillet or duck breast with figs.
• Roast veal with mushrooms (chanterelles or truffles).
• Refined dishes with complex flavors (game birds).