This consistently delivers a classic, savory, italian profile at a bargain. This is meaty and gritty, dark cherry with great acidity. A steal

This perenially good Grenache dominant wine from the Vintages Essentials collection takes a dip in quality for the 2013 vintage. Somewhat disjointed and unbalanced. There's good typicity with cherry fruit and spice, but there's also a distinct meaty, earthy character. Alcohol heat is pronounced. Medium acidity, medium minus tannin and good length. Not bad value while on sale, and a decent table wine, but not a sipper on its own. Oct. 2017.