Tar black at the core with a brick-inflected crimson rim, this wine smells of bacon fat and baking spices. It’s highly evolved, with flavors of balsamic vinegar, toffee and red roof tiles baking in the hot Mediterranean sun. Additional notes of ketchup, dates and soy make for an unusual combination. Lazy acidity and soft tannins strain to hold up the wine’s full body.

— Published (5/19/2016)