| Review: |
"(aged for a year in French oak barrels, 30 percent of them new) Glass-staining ruby. Deep-pitched black and blue fruit aromas are complemented by suggestions of woodsmoke, incense and candied violet, and a subtle hint of vanilla emerges with air. Juicy and deeply concentrated yet lively as well, offering sweet blackberry, cherry cola and floral pastille flavors and a refreshing jolt of white pepper. The long, broad finish features repeating florality and rounded tannins that fold smoothly into the dark fruit." |