Quite ripe and high in spicy and somewhat chocolaty notes, the nose of this full-bodied bottling also suggests a touch of Syrah's gaminess but is always just a bit quiet as to fruit. And, it is the shortfall of fruit on the palate that turns this one into a big body with a slightly empty center despite its clearly evident positives. Use it up in the short run with savory foods, and it is bound to make a pleasing mealtime mate.