Raven black at the core, this wine has auburn tinges. Like the color, the bouquet shows some age. The first whiffs show cola, dried boysenberry, charcoal and game. The palate is quite strict and surprisingly lean, even if it has generous alcohol. The dry tannins are gangly and even a bit bruising, and they are emphasized by the wine’s high, nervous acidity. The finish shows good length but only moderate complexity of blackberry and blackcurrant flavor. Hints of peat smoke and leather further evidences it is advancing. It drinks well now, but don’t delay popping the cork too long enjoy before 2018.

— Published (2/29/2016)