88 Points | International Wine Cellar , May 2012

Good bright medium ruby.  Musky aromas of dried cherry, licorice, tobacco and sassafras; I'm not wild for the cooperage here.  Then thick and very sweet in the mouth, with primary dark berry and dark chocolate flavors showing moderate complexity.  Harmonious acidity gives shape to this smooth wine.  Spreads out nicely on the lingering, ripely tannic finish.  A bit less sweet on the back end than the palate would suggest.