Slightly better (which is no surprise since it appears to be an impressive work in progress) is the 2008 Casa Piena. Production in this vintage is slightly higher as well. This wine displays similar character with more unsmoked cigar tobacco intermixed with creme de cassis camphor graphite and some subtle earthiness. Opaque ruby/purple medium to full-bodied layered and opulent this is a beauty as well but slightly richer and potentially more complex than the brilliant 2007. This is an impressive newcomer so take note!

A tight vivid juicy concentrated yet graceful youngster focused on dense mineral dark berry currant and blackberry fruit ending with chewy tannins and notes of espresso and spice. Comes on the heels of a 2007 that seemed out of sync with the vintage. Best from 2012 through 2022. 450 cases made.

Elaborately rich this has a velvety smooth texture due to its refined tannins. It's slowly picking up bottle character with the primary fruit flavors of blackberries and cherries mellowing as it picks up olive and earth notes. While it's remarkable for its sheer luxuriousness this is a little soft and warm which may limit ageability. Drink now-2015. - S.H.