This is a bold, almost brash, youthful red that displays oodles of ripe berry fruit and licorice. It turns into a linebacker on the palate where a muscular structure and chunky black fruit flavors of blackberry and plum abound. The elegant, supportive acidity adds tension and is enhanced by the creamy, lightly sticky tannins that seem to glue flavors of toasted oak, vanilla and ganache onto the medium finish. There’s plenty of head- turning flair and opulence that will attract those who love boisterous, higher-octane wine styles. Drink now–2021.

— Published (1/14/2019)