This aromatically reserved wine has a beetle shell-black core and a tiny magenta rim. The palate, however, is anything but reserved, especially in its showy oak treatment. There are more oak than fruit nuances, with tastes ranging from marzipan and caramel to Aunt Jemima syrup on pecan pancakes. The attack shows considerable sweetness and the acidity is mild, but the tannins kick in some streamlined structure. Drink now–2018.

— Published (1/19/2017)