This wine is densely colored with a veil of black streaks and a brief peek of fuchsia that surfaces at the rim. The aromas are intense with notes of smoke, graphite, cassis, blueberry and fresh hard-stemmed herbs. A whiff of volatile acidity dances on the nose but is far from distracting. The alcohol is generous, but it is well balanced by acidic tension, firm tannins and the absence of gylcerol. Oaky notes appear only in the subtle, bitter dark-chocolate accents. This is a flavorful wine with guts and integrity that should drink well through 2016. Imported by Ingenium Wines; SRP: $20.

— Published (3/14/2013)