Domaine les Grands Bois Cuvee Maximilien Cotes du Rhone Villages Cairanne, 2012

I love Cairanne, but somehow I have missed until nowthe Cuvee Maximilien from Domaine les Grand Bois. It is now firmly on my radar.

Bright crimson. Dark cherries, black currants, violets, anise seed, black minerals, black pepper and licorice. Certainly has a strong black streak that I usually associate with Vacqueyras. 50% Grenache, 35% Mourvedre, 10% Syrah and 5% old vine Carignan (planted in the 1960s). Ripe black fruit on the mid-palate countered by spice and black minerals. Good balance of acid and tannin and a long, savory finish. Special wine; wish I had more.