A dark, ripe, jammy red that remains fresh, with good cut to the dark blackberry pie, fig paste and plum pudding notes that pick up hints of mesquite and espresso on the focused, savory finish. Drink now through 2014. Tasted twice, with consistent notes. 300 cases imported. -JM

By Nicasia’s high previous standards, this wine from a substandard vintage is lacking. After an opening of sweet berry aromas, cured meat and spice, it’s very sweet and candied tasting, with milk chocolate and carob flavors along with unabsorbed oak. Has an easy flow and soft tannins but doesn’t have the precision, depth, crispness and totality of the 2005, ’06 or ’07. ——M.S.(12/31/2011)—— 89