Part of the varietal line of wines, the 2010 Petit Verdot was produced with grapes from vines planted in 1999 on their estate property. There are some of those burn notes so common in the variety, and also dark ripe fruit and a lactic hint. The palate has abundant tannins, some bitter flavors and a coarse texture, ending quite dry. 4,284 bottles were filled in mid June 2012.

The purple-colored 2007 Petit Verdot (100%) spent 12 month in 100% new French oak. It sports an impressive bouquet of roasted herbs, underbrush, brier, blackberry, and plum. Dense, rich, and structured on the palate, it makes up in power what it lacks in elegance. This muscular effort will reward 6-8 years of additional cellaring and should drink well through its 25th birthday. Importer: Casa Ventura; www.casaventuraimports.com

The purple/black-colored 2005 Petit Verdot was aged for 12 months in new French oak. It gives up an excellent toasty, blackberry perfume leading to a thick, layered, intense, powerful wine with succulent flavors, excellent balance, and a lengthy, fruit-filled finish. It can be enjoyed now but will drink well for at least another decade. The Arrayan wines are produced by La Casa de Las Cuatro Rayas. Importer: Casa Ventura, Bellingham, WA; tel. (360) 303-1760