The 2012 Peter Barlow was matured in 70% new French oak for 24 months and comes from a warm vintage. It has a precocious bouquet with layers of dark cherry, asphalt, mint and juniper berries, seeming to gain more and more intensity in the glass. The palate is full-bodied with juicy ripe black fruit, kirsch and crème de cassis, tempered by a keen line of acidity that maintains fine balance. It dovetails into a super spicy finish with a generous pinch of black pepper on the aftertaste. 91 points