This wine is densely black at the core, with an enticing nose of black licorice. The palate is abrupt and unforgiving, with little complexity and nuance. It feels rigid, with firm and crunchy tannins accompanying the racy acidity to give the wine a bracingly dry finish. It’s still quite primal on the nose, and its flavors staunchly favor black fruits. The character is fairly clean overall, though it certainly isn’t pristine. The firm tannins will not break down anytime soon, so enjoy with meat or hearty food.

— Published (6/11/2015)