This is fragrant, evoking aromas of flowers and strawberries. Starts elegant and silky, with the structure soon becoming apparent. There's fine length, harmony and balance to this forward and approachable version.--Non-blind 2004 DRC tasting (February 2007). Best from 2009 through 2024. — BS

Deep ruby. A penetrating nose of moderately high-toned spicy black fruit trimmed in violets and floral notes that lead to supple but intense flavors that are rich and refined with excellent finishing energy and more refinement than I usually find here. I particularly like the fine balance and there is a sense of opulence here due to the heady spice notes and this too will be approachable relatively early yet be capable of a decade's worth of improvement.