Red plum, black plum, cherry, craisins and dates lavish the palate. The decadent fruits are intertwined with sandalwood, cassis jelly and green peppers. All of this follows through to pencil lead and graphite fading in the finish. The gritty tannins become more expansive as they linger. But the texture, while lean and angular, lacks the anticipated creaminess to match the boldness of the wine The finish is instead met with a hint of apple cider vinegar. This is a barbecue-with-friends wine and wants for a juicy burger to complement its bold presence.

— Published (12/1/2023)