Glass-staining ruby. Ripe cherry and plum jam on the nose. Fat, sweet dark fruit flavors are a touch syrupy but dusty tannins add welcome grip and focus. Finishes a bit short, with a jolt of sweet, liqueur-like cherry and blackberry flavors. I'd have liked more structure and shape. Tasting this collection of wines is always a hair-raising experience. 87 points Josh Raynolds for Stephen Tanzer's International Wine Cellar, Sep/Oct 09
