8 A little charred and hard on the nose, with licorice, pepper, mint and coffee aromas. The palate is perfectly balanced and quite generous, with massive blackberry and chocolate flavors. Spicy and long on the finish, with mocha notes. Definitely a ripe, big-boned wine. ——M.S.(11/1/2011)—— 91

Restrained, elegant nose of cassis, violets, sweet spice and white pepper; complex. Powerful with sophisticated structure. Juicy but tannins still firm, suggesting it will reward patience.