Big, woody and pure, with attractive plum and berry aromas that bring earth and toast. The mouth is alert and features textured tannins, while the flavor profile is a bit rooty and sweet, with roasted black fruit and spice. Grabby, warm and stout on the finish. ——M.S.(11/1/2011)—— 91

Chunky on the nose, but also sort of rubbery, brambly, pickled and leathery. The palate is stretched and strained, with wiry acidity and piercing tannins supporting rubbery black fruit flavors. Grabby, tannic and a little hot on the finish. Good but on the sharp, underwhelming side. ——M.S.(3/1/2011)—— 86