Bright ruby. Smoky cherry and plum aromas are complicated by cracked pepper and baking spices. The palate offers dried cherry and vanilla, with a subtle spicy quality adding interest and vivacity. Finishes with a persistent lingering pepperiness. This could use more time to flesh out.

Starts out grapey and big, but soon it finds its focus. The palate is wide and fruity, with balanced tannins and acidity propping up black grape and blackberry flavors. There’s some smack to the finish, but the berry flavor is prime and the wine gets better with air. One of Tamaya’s best Cabs to date. Imported by Ecovalley Quality Wine Group and National Refrescos Import Company, LLC.——M.S.(3/1/2010)—— 88