Nuanced scents of crushed purple flower petals, forest floor and raw coconut are supported by a fruity backbone of blackberry and raspberry. The lush mouth is ripe and concentrated, with a satiny texture and bold dark-cherry and plum-flesh flavors framed by hints of cocoa. Drink now–2015.
— L.B.
(4/1/2012)
Dark and rich, there’s a slightly liquorous sensation to the blackberry and cassis core. The medium-weight mouth offers lifting acidity, great balance and depth, with attractive notes of cigar spice, cocoa powder and roasted espresso grinds on the finish.
— L.B.
(4/1/2012)
Fleshy black plum and berry aromas open the bouquet of this vibrant wine, and follow straight through to the juicy palate. Hints of tobacco and sweet yet peppery spice add nuance to the medium-weight mouth, while the structured tannins keep the ripe fruit flavors grounded. Drink now–2016.
— L.B.
(4/1/2013)
This blend of 45% Shiraz, 40% Petite Sirah, 9% Petit Verdot and 6% Merlot exudes complex notes of fresh mint and pressed violet petals against a core of red cherry and plum fruit. Hints of black tea leaves, cocoa nibs and sweet spice linger on the close. It’s till young and a bit tight, so decant now or give it some time to mellow.
— L.B.
(4/1/2012)
With 20 months spent in new French oak, this is a lush and woody wine, with assertive aromas and flavors of sweet spice, vanilla and coffee accenting the black plum and berry fruit core. Round and full in the mouth, with a texture like crushed satin and a long, sweet oak-driven finish.
— L.B.
(4/1/2012)
Foliage and cocoa integrate with the dark cherry and plum aromas of this Merlot-dominant blend. Well structured and firm but not closed with medium, approachable tannins. Cigar box, spice and milk chocolate enliven the close. Drink now.
— L.B.
(4/1/2011)
There’s a forward hickory-maple smoke note to this interesting blend of 50% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Merlot and 20% Barbera. Dark berries, vanilla bean and toasted oak notes unfold on the nose and in the mouth, with a touch of cigar tobacco spice that carries through on the finish. Drink through 2016.
— L.B.
(4/1/2013)
Black plum and fig notes laced with sweet spice define this medium-bodied wine. Soft tannins with an overall approachable structure; drink now.
— L.B.
(4/1/2011)