Mulberry tones rim this wine’s high-wattage, black-inflected core. The nose is forward in hints of cola, licorice and ripe blueberries. It is, however, beginning to advance, with notes of sweet hookah spice and mulled wine. The racy acidity gives the wine nice liveliness, much needed to balance the full body and generous alcohol. While possibly a bit polarizing, this wine is sure to please sippers who prefer bolder wine styles. Drink now–2019.

— Published (2/8/2017)