Resolutely opaque in hue. The terroir-driven nose focuses on lead pencil, potting soil, licorice, white pepper and spice, while the wine’s youthful flavors suggest fresh blackberry, blueberry and plum. Roasted coffee bean alludes to discreet new oak. The opulent body is amplified by significant but well-balanced alcohol and framed by refreshing acidity and dusty, sandy tannins. Drink now–2017.

— Published (7/1/2012)