Initial aromas on the nose are red currant, blackberries, and cherry-wood shavings, layered with baking chocolate, cinnamon, and fresh cracked black pepper.  The nose is densely layered yet subtle, with each component shining briefly before retreating into the chorus.  Expect this wine to evolve the longer it remains in your glass.

The palate has a soft attack, then comes in strong with dark fruits (think fleshy red plums, blueberries, and black cherries), tapering to a lifted finish tinged with hickory smoke.  Layers of savory herbs and refreshing mint play in the mid-palate, before resolving into baking spices like nutmeg and clove.  This wine would benefit from a good decanting while it’s young and should show beautifully if held in the cellar.