Domaine de Trevallon IGP Alpilles Rouge 2012

Domaine de Trévallon's Alpilles Rouge is a wine that needs little introduction. A cult wine with what can only be described as mythical status, it was this red that started a vinous revolution in Provence during the latter decades of the 1900s. Founded by Éloi Dürrbach in the 1970s, his early commitment to sustainable farming methods and low intervention winemaking yielded a red of unsurpassed expressiveness. A 50/50 blend of Syrah and Cabernet Sauvignon, it is a wine of incredible character and complexity, reminiscent of a Cru Classé Claret infused with sunshine. Balanced and round, expect a nose bursting with notes of ripe red fruits and a palate with distinctly savoury undertones and gorgeous tannins.

17.5+/20 - Gently leafy on the nose then quite stemmy and fresh on the palate. Firm, chewy and a complex mix of leafy graphite, sweet red fruit and hint of meatiness. Deliciously firm and fragrant and promising. - Julia Harding MW, JancisRobinson.com

93/100 - The dark floral and rich black fruit aromas spell ripe charm, while on the palate more scented violets, opulent cassis, raspberries and wild strawberries are appealingly juicy. Fine tannins give elegant structure and long, mouthwatering acidity continues to give vibrant freshness. This was a particularly tightly closed vintage when young, but now it is finally opening out to show real charm. - Elizabeth Gabay MW, Decanter