Quite dark and rich, though still holding back in its youth. The wine offers layers of complex flavors. Blackberry, cassis, chocolate, coffee, herbs, toast, cedar and smoke blend nicely here. The tannins are quite firm but ripe, while the finish is long and lush.
— J.M.
(12/31/2003)
Lots to like in this ripe, complex wine. It shows Zin’s briary, brambly, wild nature, with that acidic, delightfully sharp fruit taste you get from freshly-picked berries plucked from thorn bushes in the height of summer. Yet it possesses an elegant, Merlot-like softness that’s just luscious. That touch of raisins in the finish just adds another layer.
— S.H.
(12/31/2006)
A plush, firm style that holds back a bit, yet still reveals plenty of dark black cherry, plum, cassis, licorice, spice and herb flavors. It’s framed in classy oak and ripe tannins, finishing with moderate length on the finish.
— W.E.
(11/1/2003)
This is one of the few Orange Muscats that’s bone dry, although it has rich orange, pineapple and vanilla flavors. With crisp acidity and a firm, steely minerality, it’s a joy to drink.
— S.H.
(12/15/2009)
Lush and richly textured, with upfront vanilla and spice aromas. On the palate, itÕs loaded with pretty citrus, mineral and herb notes. Long, clean and bright at the end.
— J.M.
(2/1/2004)
Just what Merlot should be, a soft, gently appealing wine whose easy tannins make it drinkable now. It’s rich and spicy in raspberry and cherry fruit and cedar flavors.
— S.H.
(8/1/2011)
Quite zippy, with bright acidity and lemony overtones. The wine is also blessed with exotic apricot, melon and honeyed tones as well as pretty floral notes on the finish. Very refreshing.
— J.M.
(12/1/2003)
Made in a drier, leaner and more tannic style than your typically ripe Oakville Cab. Shows currant and cedar flavors grounded with dried herbs and tobacco. Pair with flank steak with sautéed wild mushrooms.
— S.H.
(12/1/2009)