A small, morello cherry-colored rim surrounds the saturated black core. The nose is packed with forest berries, North African spices and bay leaf. The palate offers crunchy blackberries, black cherries, vanilla extract and asphalt. Though initially supple and creamy on the attack given the wine’s moderate, fine-grained tannins, the jolting acidity stands out and makes the wine disjointed. Correct ripeness and clean fruit suggest this should be a property to keep an eye on. Drink now through 2016.

— Published (6/16/2014)