A Meritage blend of 70% Cabernet Sauvignon, 15% Merlot, 10% Cabernet Franc, 4% Malbec and 1% Petit Verdot, this is deep, rich and chewy, without having excessive alcohol. The concentrated flavor of cassis is married to layers of clean earth, graphite and coffee grounds. The tannins are slightly grainy, fully ripe and wreathed in a smoke note, and the length is superb. — (4/1/2013) —93