Super dark fruit with plums and ripe cherries in abundance, as well as earthy, dark, toasted spices that lead to a palate with a very plush, vibrant and assertively fruited core. Smooth build here and a strong finish. Drink or hold.

Saturated garnet. Pungent, spice-accented red berry and cherry aromas, along with suggestions of candied rose, vanilla and smoky minerals. Seamless and broad on the palate, showing good heft and spicy cut to concentrated raspberry, cherry compote, mocha and floral pastille flavors. The floral quality carries through an energetic finish that features discreet tannins and a lingering suggestion of sappy red fruit. Made with 18% whole clusters and aged in 40% new oak. -- Josh Raynolds