Unabashedly black and opaque in appearance with a nose that shows youthful, impressively ripe fruit that dabbles with raisinated notes of dates, fig and shriveled black currants. Lifting notes of eucalyptus, violets and black plum skin add complexity. This wine is turbo-charged with flavor. Dry on the attack with ample alcohol, buoyant acidity and subtle yet shaping tannins, this wine will pair well with heavy meat dishes. The moderate finish suggests it will hold and develop well over the next 3–4 years.

— Published (7/24/2012)