Rich yet subtle wine, full of balanced wood, tarry fruit, flavors of mint and blackberry along with sweet tannins. It marries spice and rich fruit. Well worth aging.——R.V.(3/1/2012)—— 91

Aged in a small proportion of new wood, this is a concentrated, sophisticated wine. It derives its character from the local Braucol and Duras grapes, blended with Syrah. Together, these varieties give a complex, black berry led wine, vivid with acidity and packed with tannins. Age for 4–5 years. ——R.V.(12/15/2010)—— 91

Blending Duras, Braucol and Syrah, this is a powerful wine, perfumed and dominated by tannins from fruit and wood. There is a great juiciness as well, with the black cherry and black currant fruits bursting around the mouth. For aging—allow at least 5–6 years. ——R.V.(3/1/2010)—— 91

This is a fascinating wine, just by reading the list of grapes in the blend: Duras, Braucol, Syrah and Cabernet Sauvignon. The first two, local grapes, lend a rough edge of tannins, which demands aging, but also give flavors of herbs, wild thyme and solid meaty character. The roundness comes from the ripe Syrah, which adds perfume.——R.V.(11/15/2008)—— 90