A welcome return to form after the disappointing 2005. Massive, dark, saturated and spicy; laden with black fruits, smoke and charcoal. The dark flavors run right into bitter chocolate and roasted earth, but don’t mistake the descriptors to suggest this is anything but extremely delicious, with a long and very satisfying finish. 100% Merlot, all estate grown. ——P.G.(8/1/2009)—— 93