This wine’s dark-black color, subtly nuanced by magenta-purple streaks, promises to stain glasses and teeth. Its aromas are just as attention grabbing: full-throttle power comes through in one whiff. From nose to palate, it shows a cohesive array of lush, peak-of-summer fruits, with cassis and black plum dominating. Licorice, cracked black pepper and a waft of evergreen freshen up the back-palate along with well-measured, medium-plus acidity. The prolonged finish that coats the tongue offers a slightly grainy textural balance. This is so well-structured that you’ll likely get to the bottom of the bottle before you expect. Drink now–2024.

— Published (1/31/2018)