Wayward and slightly weedy on the nose, with candied fruit notes that help it along. The palate is more acidic and rhubarby than ideal, although the tartness is offset by a creamy flavor of carob bean. Short and hot on the finish; acceptable but not well executed.——M.S.(2/1/2010)—— 83

A little bit of leather and smoke meat give the blackberry bouquet something different, while the palate is round, forward and shows good plum and berry flavors. Some heat and spice on the finish do not detract from the overall package, which makes the grade if it doesn’t blow you away.——M.S.(12/1/2007)—— 86