Wine Enthusiast Reviews ...

Pleasingly soft in the mouth, this blend of Cabernet, Merlot, Malbec and Syrah is supple with a mellow fruitiness. Cassis and cherries dominate the midpalate, with new oak barrels filling in the back with toast and butterscotch and vanilla. The alcohol is 14.4%—moderate by current standards—and there’s a tickle of tobacco in the finish. This already drinks very well, and can also age over the medium term. —P.G.

Roundly fruity, loaded with bright berries, and nicely spiced with herbal (tobacco) highlights. Immediately approachable and nicely structured, this open and generous effort glides into a smooth and chocolaty finish. The tannins have been especially well ripened and polished, so the bright fruit has no sharp edges. —P.G.

This captivating wine treads the line between Rhône and Bordeaux. A splash of Cabernet, though just a fraction of the blend, stands out. The wine has depth and persistence, and the mix of grapes works well, showing brambly red fruits, like a Zin, spice and pepper, like Syrah, and some herbal and leafy tobacco in the finish. Complex, unique and quite appealing. Editors’ Choice. —P.G.