93 Pts Jeb Dunnuck - Robert Parker's Wine Advocate

"The 2012 Cotes Catalanes Cuvee Nicolas is an off-the-hook value. Named after Jean-Marc's son and made from 100% Grenache from higher elevation sites in the Aspres region, fermented with 20% stems and aged half in demi-muid, it offers layers of kirsch, underbrush, licorice and serious floral notes in its medium to full-bodied, elegant and seamless profile. Getting a big 'wow' in the notes and showing fine tannin and serious length, it should be snatched up by savvy readers and consumed over the coming 3-4 years."

"Run by the talented (and fast driving) Jean-Marc and Eliane Lafage, from their cellar located just outside of Perpignan (which is being completely renovated), this estate includes vineyards spread throughout the Roussillon, allowing them to make the most of the diverse terroirs and micro-climates. I struggle to think of another portfolio that encompasses anywhere close to this level of value, and the average quality to price (QPR) for these wines is just hard to believe. I've included the Chateau Saint Roch and Saint Roch (mostly Maury-basedbased) releases here as well, as they're made at the estate and were part of the tasting I had with Jean-Marc." (4/14)