Dark cherry aromas and beautifully integrated oak with attractive mint-menthol notes grace the complex nose. The flavors are very complex as well, with tart cherry, licorice, balsamic, prune and cocoa notes dancing on the palate. Big in scale but very well balanced, with a long dry finish and firm but not sharp tannins. Truly excellent. (Available in magnums only…
— M.M.
(8/1/2000)
Despite this wine’s heavy overlay of oak (a blend of American and French), the vintage’s bright fruit shines through with stunning clarity and purity. Cinnamon and toast accent the anise-tinged cherries—some black, some red. Finishes with black tea and vanilla notes. Don’t miss this wine if you are oak tolerant. Editors’ Choice.
— J.C.
(11/1/2001)
Solid fruit, a strong scent of violets, and a nutty, gamy element mark the nose of this solid red. Flavorful, with sour cherry, red berry and licorice elements on the palate, and an even finish with fine tannins. This is a smooth and sophisticated wine that still has good grip, from a master winemaker. (Available fall 2000.)
— M.M.
(8/1/2000)