There’s a deeply embedded claret color that approaches opaque. The nose is smoky with briar patch, mulberry and dried cranberry aromas. Though fairly subtle aromatically, the oak surfaces with gusto on the palate in the form of vanilla, nutmeg, cinnamon and caramelized walnuts. The mouthcoating texture is shaped by moderate acidity and round yet dusty tannin. Drink now to 2015.

— Published (7/24/2012)