This dark mahogany wine wears a small scarlet rim. The nose is forward in tertiary notes of fallen autumn leaves as well as pencil ss and stale fruitcake. The palate is also clearly developed, with spice character displaying as prominently as the unusual combination of smashed cranberries and sundried tomatoes. The racy acidity gives the wine a serious—almost rigid—backbone, while the smooth tannins caress the palate. There’s no evident new oak, yet the fairly long finish has a pleasant caramel tone. This wine is at its peak, so drink now.

— Published (2/8/2017)