As in 2009, the 2010 Bully includes 10% Petit Verdot, and was aged in 100% new French oak. Muscular tannins and hints of caraway speak to the substantial addition of PV, and the wine is at first chewy and closed. Give it aerating and it shows plenty of depth, with dense raspberry fruit, notes of white pepper and crushed rock, and a lively streak of lemony acid.

Even to smell this wine, the impression is dense and brawny, with scents of tar and mocha that carry forward to the blackberry flavors. The ripe, black tannins provide a succulent intensity to the texture, a supple finish for skirt steak. (700 cases)

The 2010 The Bully is another outstanding wine from this estate that’s worth checking out. A blend of 90% Cabernet Sauvignon and 10% Petit Verdot that spent 22 months in all new French oak, it offers beautiful cassis, lead pencil shavings, wild herbs, tobacco leaf and distinct minerality to go with a medium to full-bodied, lively, fresh and balanced profile on the palate that builds with time in the glass. Showing impressive length, as well as the richness that’s the hallmark of this estate, this serious 2011 will drink well through 2026. 91+ - Jeb Dunnuck