A well-structured wine with fine fruit-acid balance, this has a quite dry dark berry core accented on the nose by smoky oak, anise and tarragon notes. Licorice and leather add palate interest, and firm, drying tannins show on the finish. Dark and handsome, it’s drinkable now, but will be at its best from mid-2003 through 2006. —M.M.——M.M.(4/1/2002)—— 88