Deep vivid purple. Smoke- and spice-accented black and blue fruit, succulent herb, violet and cola aromas, along with a peppery spice overtone. Palate-staining cherry, cassis, mocha and spicecake flavors show excellent clarity and an energizing core of juicy acidity. Puts on weight with air while maintaining energy, and finishes sweet and very long, with harmonious tannins and a resonating floral note. There's a modest 12.8% alcohol here.
-- Josh Raynolds