Lots to admire in this wine, from the smooth, complex tannins to the classic blackberry and cassis flavors. However, it’s very acidic, surprising the palate with the sting of a jellyfish. Hard to predict its future.——S.H.(12/15/2011)—— 87

There’s quite an impressive Cabernet in here, but it’s nowhere near ready to drink now. All the parts are there: rich, pure tannins, ripe blackberry and currant fruit, sweet toasty oak and a fine edge of acidity. But it all needs time to knit together. Hold until around 2014 and see what happens.——S.H.(12/15/2011)—— 93

Wonderful, exotic, brooding blackberry and liquorice nose. Full and lush, wonderful texture and balance. Silky and creamy, complex and very polished.