Deep ruby. Fresh aromas of blackberry, kirsch, cedar and leather. Intensely flavored and powerful, with very fresh, precise flavors of dark berries, cigar box, violet, licorice, espresso and bitter chocolate. Offers an enticing combination of ripeness and acidity, of power and elegance. Juicy, primary, penetrating wine, not as pliant as some. Finishes with sweet, nicely enrobed tannins. A very good showing.

Fairly complex and nicely fruited, but not among the deeper or the concentrated of the 2005s, this silky and relatively mannerly wine shows elements of cherries, cassis, tobacco and a touch of earth in both scent and taste. It picks up an edge of last-minute tannins, but it is comparatively easy to taste now and does not demand lengthy time in the cellar.

Aromas of blackberry, meat and earth follow through to a full body, with velvety tannins and a rich finish. Decadent, balanced and very approachable already. Wine Spectator 91 Points

Community Tasting Notes (average 90.7 pts. and median of 91 pts. in 23 notes)

Rating: Barrel Tasting - As reviewed by Wine Spectator on 06/30/06

Rating: 91/100 - As reviewed by Wine & Spirits Magazine on 10/08

a distinctive, herbal, meaty, horsey nose, medium to full body, good depth, power and richness, and soft tannins. The wine's rustic aromas and earthy style are intriguing and provocative.

$65 range