Strawbery soup, spice, cedar and cinnamon on the nose. Ample, positive damson and plum fruit with a neat oak overlay. Structured, ripe tannins and soft, balanced acidity and a fine, dry finish. Well judged. Drink: 2014. Alc: 14%. (16.5 points)

With a blend that is half Cabernet Sauvignon, half Merlot, this is as rich as the year. The weight of fruit is borne by sweet tannins and layers of wood toast. There is a very dense dusty texture along with fine acidity and final blackberry fruit. It is for aging over the next 4–5 years. ——R.V.(2/1/2012)—— 92