Bold on the nose, this inky black wine has a small cherry-colored rim. It smells of vanilla bean, maple syrup and hickory-smoked bacon. The palate is round on the attack, with generously ripe and very tight-grained tannins. The mouthfeel is so big and bold that it seems the acidity sits quietly in the background however, it does provide perky, citrusy lift on the back palate. The noticeable oak spice is pleasant, and it should integrate further with time. The finish is lovely and long. Drink now through 2021.

— Published (2/29/2016)