Deeply flushed with purple and black streaks, this wine’s nose is resolutely closed. Minerals, unlit charcoal and boysenberry can be found with intense concentration. Despite the profusely ripe black fruit flavors on the palate, the wine is definitively medium in body. The structure is surprisingly refined the tannins are mild and fine, and the acidity is almost perky. The finish is short-lived. Still, this wine offers excellent value, especially for lovers of warmer climate, old-world wines.

— Published (10/15/2012)