Deep black in color, this wine has a tinge of brick in its tiny, mulberry rim. The nose is reticent in fruit capacity, favoring pencil lead, rusty iron and dry-aged steak. The full-bodied palate is packed with flavor: blackcurrants, blackberries, tar and mint. The corralled tannins are fairly fine-grained, with a light and pleasant drying sensation on the medium-plus finish. The acidity is thirst-quenching, and the overall complexity is enticing. While this drinks well now, it should also hold well through 2018 thanks to the prominent structure.

— Published (2/29/2016)