Very floral, with sappy herbs, pepper, damp earth, cherry and darker berry fruit, the 2012 Red Willow Vineyard is medium-bodied, rich and concentrated, with plenty of tannin and integrated acidity. Made from 36% Cabernet Franc, 35% Merlot, 18% Petit Verdot and the balance Cabernet Sauvignon, that spent 18 months in 40% new French oak, it has the fruit and texture to drink well on release, and the tannin and depth to evolve gracefully for over a decade.

Cabernet Franc (36%) and Merlot (35%) make up the majority of this blend, with the rest Cabernet Sauvignon. It’s locked-up at present with high-toned aromas of dried herbs and flowers along with cranberry and cherry. The dense, dark cherry flavors and firm, chalky tannins are tightly coiled, needing significant time to unwind. It will be best after 2019.

Spicy, herbal and fruit-driven in equal parts, this elegant, deftly balanced red defines complexity and refinement under a layer of crunchy tannins. The currant, blackberry, rose petal and nutmeg flavors come together harmoniously on the lengthy finish. ... Drink now through 2020.

More fresh and lively, the 2011 Red Willow Vineyard is made from 47% Cabernet Franc, 39% Merlot and 14% Cabernet Sauvignon. It possesses plenty of black cherry, pepper, underbrush, wild herb and spring flower-like aromas and flavors to go with a medium-bodied, supple, elegant and beautifully pure style. Drink it over the coming 7-8 years.