A Blend of 64% Merlot and 27% Cabernet Franc with splashes of Malbec and Peite Verdot this is built for the long haul. Raspberries cherries and rich Chocolate run through this fine-tuned focused wine. It's deep elegant and penetrating with a show-stopping layer of pure mineral that is so powerful the fruit seems soaked in rocks. Cellar Selection.-P.G.

From Ciel du Cheval Klip-sun and Kiona vineyards this big-shouldered blend of merlot cabernet franc malbec and petit verdot is more savory than most Red Mountain wines a nod to restraint in what is otherwise a powerhouse. Its aromas hint at power-with plum scents leavened by smoked sundried tomato accents. The flavors are generous but controlled the dark plum fruit adorned with tobacco mocha and unsweetened chocolate. This needs five years in the cellar and a steak.