Rating: 92/100 - As reviewed by International Wine Cellar in Issue 102, May/June 2002. Bright medium ruby. Captivating, wild aromas of cassis, currant, leather, meat and sandalwood. Juicy and intensely flavored, with a seamless texture and lovely sweetness. Still a bit youthfully unevolved but vibrant and light on its feet. Finishes with firm, ripe tannins and compelling sweet fruit. A merlot with sex appeal and real soil character.

This wine shows aromas of sweet plum sauce, vanilla, chocolate, cedar and butterscotch with big, forward black cherry and black berry fruit in the mouth. A balanced middle with a hint of toasty oak is paired with a nice bite from rounded tannins, and a long pleasant finish. This wine pairs well with grilled meats and wild game with herb-infused, wild-berry sauces, hearty pasta dishes and Pacific Northwest Salmon.

Rating: 90/100 - As reviewed by The Wine Advocate in Issue 141.

Rating: 92/100 - As reviewed by Wine Spectator on 08/31/02.