Bold, dark and handsome, albeit a touch herbal and earthy on the nose. The palate is thick and statuesque, with herbal, rooty berry fruit, a spot of raisin, and cracked black pepper. Chewy, deep and ultimately dry on the finish. Drinkable now; best in another couple of years. ——M.S.(6/1/2010)—— 90

The nose shows some tire rubber and burnt toast, but the biggest component of the bouquet is black coffee. The fruit on the palate has a high-toned, acidic edge to it, but the flavors are solid. If there’s any one thing that raises questions, it’s the strong, persistent nuttiness to the finish. The wine tastes a lot like roasted almonds or cashews as it fades away. Imported by Dana Importers, Inc.——M.S.(6/1/2007)—— 87