The red wines begin with the deep crimson-colored 2007 Merlot (52%)-Cabernet Franc (48%). Super intense aromas of spice box (clove, cinnamon, sage, and rosemary), boysenberry, and wild blueberry lead to a medium to full-bodied, concentrated wine that merges elegance with power. It has plenty of ripe tannin for balance so expect it to evolve for 3-4 years and provide pleasure through 2019.
These are the best wines yet from Caleb Foster, owner/winemaker of Buty Winery.
Tel. (309) 527-0901; www.butywinery.com