The nose is spicy and peppery with intense aromas of blackberry, dried fig, cigar box, leather, vanilla, and meat, accented by subtle violet notes. The palate is dry and full-bodied with crisp acidity and firm, ripe tannins. It presents a complex mix of paprika, black plum, sundried tomato, blueberry, and leather, leading to a savoury dried sage finish. This wine has lots of character now and will soften over the next 2-3 years. Enjoy it with a seared piece of beef, ratatouille, and hearty polenta.