Underplayed themes of sour cherries are met by suggestions of sweet oak, dried leaves and rooty spice in the nose here, and things stay on the subtle side once the wine is in the mouth. Rounded, low in tannin and just a touch flat at its heart, it is need of more energy for a wine of its years, and it shows modest prospects for aging.

Bright ruby-red. Aromas of cassis, blackberry, violet and pepper show lovely lift. Offers plenty of volume, with sweet, lush berry flavors seemingly strong enough to carry a full load of oak. Finishes with good tannic spine and lingering, very ripe fruit.