*Not eligible for discount. We kindly ask you to respect our discount policy. Utilizing a discount code for this purchase will result in a refund and a 5% re-stocking fee. 

Jacques Reynaud "godfather of Châteauneuf-du-Pape" and legendary founder of Château Rayas, died suddenly in 1997. Their nephew, Emmanuel Reynaud, was already making wines at his father's Château des Tours, but he still agreed to take the reins at both Château Rayas and Château de Fonsalette. 

An unabashed recluse, Emmanuel, can be found working his vineyards at most any time of day, every day. Emmanuel does not revel in the fame and notoriety that come with making such sought-after and acclaimed wines, but he continues to carry the mantle of his famous forebears, producing hauntingly aromatic wines at his three estates: Château Rayas, Château des Tours and Château de Fonsalette. 

The Chateau Rayas vineyards are north-facing and surrounded by native forest, creating a cool microclimate that encourages extremely slow ripening and long hang-times. The wines are utterly beguiling in their complexity and finesse. 

"Prominent kirsch liqueur, forest floor, strawberry compote, dried meat, rosemary, pressed violets and sage are only some of the many aromas and flavors that jump out of the glass. Refined to the core, the athletic 2012 packs a laser-like focus and flawlessly integrates the elevated alcohol. This is a remarkably uplifting Rayas with less obvious punch compared to riper years like 2009 or 2010, but the levels of intensity and finesse are jaw-dropping." - Vinous Media (98 pts) 

Grape: 100% Grenache 

Soils: Fine Red Sand with Small Pebbles

Viticulture: Organic in the most traditional sense

Pairing: Only your best friends, or maybe just your best cheese