This wine is carbon black from the core almost to the purple rim. The reserved nose has a mineral edge complemented by blackberry and black currant leaf. The attack is fresh and lively, zinging with boisterous acidity and black plum-skin tannic tension. The structure supports the full-bodied mouthfeel. A bit pithy on the medium-length, gravel- and licorice-driven finish, this isn’t an aperitif-style wine. Save it for hearty foods at the table. Drink through 2018.

— Published (6/11/2015)