This Saint-Emilion is purple at the core transitioning to crimson at the rim. It needs a few swirls to come alive in the glass but when it does it opens with strong mineral tones of dry dusty earth, sage and pot-pourri. Under these dominant tones there are notes of cherry cola, blood orange, dark chocolate and expresso. It transitions nicely to the palate where it is a solid medium body with a good acidic and tannic structure. It is overall very pleasant and balanced. This wine would pair nicely with an assortment of roased meats, particularly pork.

The debut vintage under Jonathan Maltus the 2008 offers sweet black cherry black currant licorice and graphite characteristics in a layered deep wine. Building incrementally on the palate it exhibits impressive purity richness and length. Acids are there but the wine is forward supple and ideal for drinking now and over the next 10-12 years.