Opulent nose with blackberry pie, sweet spice and vanilla. More classic Bordeaux style on the palate with cassis, graphite and grippy tannins. Lingering notes of iron shaving and orange peel add to the complexity of this solidly above average Meritage blend.

A red Meritage driven by 73% Cabernet Sauvignon, this structured, full-bodied wine also blends in 19% Merlot, 3% Petit Verdot and 3% Malbec. Blackberry and chocolate accent chalky tannins, with bold hits of black licorice, cassis, pencil and black tea. Drink now through 2020.

Mostly cabernet sauvignon (73 percent) and merlot (19 percent), this blend includes small amounts of petit verdot, malbec and franc. Time in oak has given a coal-black depth to its substantial tannins, while the fruit percolates through with pungent cherry skin and juicier cherry-flesh flavors. The dark, espresso-roast scent of oak continues in the finish, needing cellar time to meld completely with the fruit.

Firm and complex, with enticing aromas of dark and red berry, spice, cedar and graphite. Tightly focused and very Bordeaux-like, showing restraint and structure. Ends long and fruity. Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Petit Verdot and Malbec. Drink now through 2026. 12,338 cases made. –JL