This wine’s sultry-looking, black-inflected, glass-staining color doesn’t come with a very generous nose. There’s black currant, lilac, marjoram and fennel along with wild berry, cassis and fig. The palate brings dark chocolate mousse, nougat, graphite, incense and toasted pecan into the equation. The body is full and the alcohol feels a bit heady. However, the grainy tannins and pronounced acidity provide good lift. All in all, it’s vigorous and invigorating, and there’s enough substance to provide a medium-minus finish. Drink now–2018.

— Published (2/19/2015)