Rated 93 by Stephen Tanzer. Rated 90 by Robert Parker. Inky ruby. Powerful dark fruit, vanilla and floral pastille aromas are lifted by dusty minerality and a hint of white pepper. Silky and expansive on the palate, offering juicy blackberry and cola flavors and a touch of candied flowers. Picks up a smoky quality on the spice-accented finish, which shows very good energy and thrust. In a pretty flamboyant, exotic style that reminded me of some high-end Central Coast Rhone blends.