Intense and a bit raw in texture, with vibrant wild berry and blackberry flavors that show a touch of stemminess in the tannins. Best to cellar short-term to let the tannins subside. Best from 2004 through 2007. 148 cases made. -JL

An intense aroma of charcoal (or is it pencil lead?) is the first impression, but that fades away, revealing rubber and some stewed plum and tomato. Red fruit flavors walk atop a carpet of buttery sweet oak, yet the finish is mildly tart, offering mostly cranberry and rhubarb along with tight tannins.——W.E.(10/1/2002)—— 86

Ripe, with black cherry, plum, fresh herbs and smoky oak flavors, nicely underscored by crisp acidity and chewy tannins. Drink now through 2005. 504 cases made. -JL

A bit riper than this winery's Chamisal bottling, this one has black-cherry aromas well framed by earthier, herbal notes that include tomato and beet. Oak adds chocolate and vanilla notes. It's fairly tannic, with rich berry fruit and earthy complexity. Cellar it for a year or two.——S.H.(12/15/2001)—— 89

A bit beefy at first, with a follow-up that includes exotic menthol, cola and herb notes. Full-bodied, it also serves up plum and berry flavors framed in firm but ripe tannins. Finishes moderately. Best from 2001 through 2004. 655 cases made. -