This is a flavourful, well-balanced red blend of mostly petit verdot (28), merlot (27), and shiraz (25), with some cabernet sauvignon (12) and small amounts of Grenache (7) and cabernet franc (1). The nose offers a nice mix of ripe cherry, plum, and red and black berry fruit, oak (smoke, vanilla, toast, dill) spice (black pepper, anise, nutmeg, cumin), and touches of leather, eucalyptus, and cedar. The palate is similar, but the fruit is more cherry and cassis, and some cocoa comes out. The spice element replays nicely. The wine is medium-full bodied, with moderate acidity, decent tannin structure, and slight alcohol warmth. Will pair well with a variety of grilled meats. Tasted Jan. 2017.

Much like the '12, this Bordeaux-Rhone variety blend is a wine a remarkable depth given the low price. Plenty of ripe fruit with a hint of herbs and, like the '12, a bit too much oak for my tastes. Still, there is no denying the quality here. Tasted Feb 2017.