This deep maroon wine with a fuchsia rim has a slight haze, suggesting it might be unfiltered. The fragrance suggests succulently ripe fruit, while flavors of baking spice, vanilla bean, loganberry and sloe make for an exotic palate. These flavors are joined by subtle notes of leather and evergreen. The wine makes a big impact not only in flavor but also in structure the coarse-grained, drying tannins definitely demand hearty food. On the other hand, the acidity supports the wine but definitely plays a secondary role. The persistent finish and good concentration suggests the cork doesn’t need to be popped just yet, though it certainly could be. Drink now through 2018.

— Published (8/4/2014)