Along the same lines and decidedly gulpable, the 2012 Vacqueyras Jean-Marie Arnoux is a destemmed blend of 70% Grenache, 25% Syrah and 5% other permitted varieties, that was aged 12 months in foudre. It gives up pretty spice, cedar, truffle and sappy herb-like qualities intermixed with sweet red fruits. Medium-bodied and lightly textured, with moderate concentration and solid focus, it is an elegant, possibly outstanding, effort to drink over the coming 4-5 years. This large estate produces a bevy of rich, fruit-forward efforts that remain more than reasonably priced. Looking at the 2011s, this is a solid vintage here and the wines make the most of the vintage, with upfront fruit and texture. Importer: Grape Expectations, Raleigh, NC; tel. (919) 781-1655