Bright red-ruby. Ripe black raspberry, cocoa powder, spices and smoke on the nose. Lush and silky on entry, then wonderfully tangy and brisk in the middle, with vibrant acidity and firm minerality giving superb focus to the black cherry and violet flavors. Shows as much finesse today as the 2005 did a year ago. Finishes tightly wound, pure and very long, with terrific mineral spine.

Don't miss! This is also surprisingly reserved and if not inexpressive, then reluctant though vigorous swirling coaxes a stunningly broad array of spice nuances as well as both blue and black fruit aromas that slide gracefully into rich, full, sweet and subtly mineral-infused flavors that are impressively powerful for the vintage and deliver simply huge length on the explosive and palate staining finish. This is not only classy but exceptionally stylish as well though note that it will need 12 to 15 years to reach its majority - it should be well worth the wait. Drink: 2018+
-Allen Meadows, Burghoubnd.com Issue: 29. Tasted: Jan 01, 2008

Rather unclean? Overwhelming black cherry aromas and then obvious sweetness, and then chewy green austerity. (JR)