The 2007 The Blend Synthesis is a viscous effort with legs that coat the glass. Aromas and flavors of black cherry, plum, and exotic spices lead to a layered, succulent wine loaded with fruit and some underlying structure. Give it 2-3 years of additional cellaring and drink it from 2012 to 2022. Importer: Buena Cepa Wines, Miami, FL; tel. (786) 347-9249

A touch of mineral and charcoal-based darkness interacts with black currant and berry aromas, while the palate is rich, smoky and dark, with huge berry flavors touched up by cracked black pepper, chocolate and burnt toast. Solid as a rock and covers all the bases of a good Bordeaux-style blend. Drink from 2010 through 2013.——M.S.(12/31/2009)—— 92