Deeply flushed with black-flecked magenta, this wine smells of ripe forest berries, toasted oak and vanilla. Morello cherries, açai, clove, cardamom, bay leaf and pencil lead all add nuance to the palate. The reasonable alcohol is balanced by fruit succulence, lightly tugging tannins and medium acidity. Drinks well now yet has the poise and good concentration to keep well through 2015 and may develop well over a longer time frame. Not clearly Syrah, but certainly a tasty drink.

— Published (7/16/2013)