Firm and tartly wound, with cassis and black cherry at the core of a young, stiffly tannic, Cabernet-based blend. Black fruits are nuanced with earth and olive, smoke and graphite, all subtle but definitely in view.——P.G.(12/15/2011)—— 90

A tight, tangy, terrific blend of Syrah, Merlot and Cab Franc, this humble table wine has some real muscle. Great fruit is the key, backed with espresso-smoked tannins. The spice of the Syrah marries the coffee/blueberry fruit of the Franc; everything works together. ——P.G.(7/1/2004)—— 89