This is a dense, concentrated, complex, blend of mostly syrah, merlot, and Malbec, along with small amounts of viognier, mourvedre, and petit verdot. There is a balance of ripe dark fruit (plum, cherry, blueberry, and blackberry) with smoke, vanilla, and cocoa, as well as plenty of savoury notes of tobacco, clove, black olive, licorice, incense, and forest floor. There is even a floral touch of violet that emerges. On the palate it is full-bodied and smooth, with some warming alcohol. The acidity and tannins are moderate, though the latter still have a slight chalkiness. Quite a mouthful! The finish is quite long. Tasted Mar. 2017.