There’s no doubt as to why they call this wine “The Mint,” as the first whafts of the bouquet provide an unquestionable mentholated aroma with a backdrop of black plum and currant fruit. Glimmers of crushed violet petals and mocha develop in the silky mouth, with the fine well-integrated tannins sticking through the lingering close. Enjoyable now but cellar-worthy for another couple of years. ——L.B.(11/1/2011)—— 91

You should know what you’re getting yourself into here, as the name definitely doesn’t lie. So minty and herbaceous it’s almost hard to believe, and it all mingles with notes of crushed violets and black currant leaf as well as a solid fruit core of cassis and black plum skins. It’s firm and tight in the mouth but approachable after a little breathing time. ——L.B.(12/31/2010)—— 90