Tasted out of barrel, the 2012 Vacqueyras Les Aubes is a blend of 80% Grenache and 20% Syrah. Floral and fresh, with plenty of sweet red fruits, underbrush and licorice, this medium-bodied, energetic and lively effort should be consumed over the coming 5-6 years. This was a solid tasting with proprietor Yves Gras. One of the benchmark estates in Gigondas, the estate also releases a number of high-quality negociant wines from Sablet, Vin de Pays and Cotes du Rhone. While 2011 and 2012 are strong vintages here, the wines are more streamlines and focused than in the past, and in the case of the 2012s, should benefit from short-term cellaring, as I found most to be closed and tight. Importer: Robert Kacher Selections, New York, NY; tel. (212) 239-1275