Bright and tangy, blackberry, cherry, mineral and chocolate flavors that last beautifully on the velvety finish. Picks up hints of mint and pepper as the finish goes on and on. Tannins have grip. Best from 2004 through 2014. – HS

The 2001s seem to be right at that magical peak. The 2001 Grenache Kangarilla Vineyard is powerful, rich, and full-bodied with plenty of black cherry, licorice, and herb characteristics. No longer the big, rich fruit bomb it was in its first 2-3 years of life, it has become very Provencal-like in its peppery spiciness. The lesson with respect to these Clarendon Hills Grenaches is to drink them during their first 6-8 years of life. - Robert Parker