This crimson wine’s appearance is lightly cloudy, and the nose smells of creosote, honey-soaked black raisin and soy. The palate is soft and full-bodied, with nicely integrated alcohol. The acidity is a bit lenient, but there’s enough dusty tannin to provide ample structure. The moderate finish favors oak tones of cherry cola and vanilla bean. This is likely to please most casual crowds, but its freshness is fading, so enjoy it now through 2017.

— Published (2/29/2016)