Really impressive tannins and structure for the price. Cherry, tobacco, cassis, smoky vanilla oak, leather, herbs...it's all in there. Niagara Acidity keeps it fresh and balanced.

The 2011 Conspiracy is a ripasso-styled wine based on Cabernet Sauvignon (85% Cabernet Sauvignon, 15% Cabernet Franc) from the appassimento-minded Foreign Affair winery.

The wine is surprisingly ripe given the vintage – with black fruit, floral, and herb notes – balanced alongside fresh acidity and soft tannins. The oak (14 months in a combination of French and American oak) is slightly overwhelming, with abundant vanilla and spice. The length is good. A wine for short- to medium-term enjoyment. The oak will further integrate with time.