This wine has a medium-deep ruby core and raspberry rim. The nose is a bit awkward and not forthcoming, yet it offers compelling notes of pu-erh teal, mulch and peat along with dried, unsweetened cranberries. The palate is lightly smoky but not oaky, though there seem to be some mocha notes coming out with time in the glass. The tannins tend toward strapping but are not aggressive, and the medium-plus acidity does not over-accentuate them. The finish is significantly powerful, showing some leather and cigar notes typical of wines that have benefited from bottle age. Drink now–2019.

— Published (2/19/2015)