Dark and intense, with a rich, full, velvety mouthfeel. The fruit measures up, bringing big-time flavors of black cherries and plum, but it has a slightly herbal-vegetal side reminiscent of beet greens or cabbage that holds this otherwise impressive wine back. If this element fades or integrates, this rating could look stingy. ——J.C.(4/1/2004)—— 90