Vibrant red, with a spicy nose of pepper, graham cracker, mint, plum, and a hint of bramble. Full-bodied and big, with chalky tannins and high alcohol (15.5%), the loaded dark fruit flavors lean towards prune, with coffee and chocolate riding shotgun. The long finish is smooth, but the heat in this wine makes it near impossible to pair with food. ——M.D.(9/1/2006)—— 87