A definitive varietal stamp on the bouquet.

Crème de cassis, fresh blackberries/mulberries. A refreshing note of mint (sweet jelly leaves?).

The spice palette is well represented: toasted cumin/coriander seeds, fresh bay leaf,

and turmeric.

The complexity that comes from French and American oak is evident.

Toasted coconut (rough coconut), or chocolate truffle in toasted coconut. Cedarwood. Dusty cocoa/Dutch cocoa.

A generous meatiness lingers on the palate. Wild black cherries, cola, sarsaparilla.

A fine graphite core and juicy cherries. Seamlessly interwoven tannins.

The interplay of oak, tannins and acidity provides a consistent mouthfeel, a glossy texture.

Cranberry acidity and juiciness form a nice balance.

Surprisingly approachable considering the temperament of the grape variety.

A wine to keep an eye on and one that will evolve beautifully over the next two/three decades.