A complete wine, from the black currant fruits through the balanced tannins to the acidity. It is sturdy, complex, a wine that is already singing and will age well.

A stunning success, this 7,000-case blend of 58% Merlot and 42% Cabernet Franc reveals a beautiful nose of black currants, black cherries, loamy soil and forest flora. Full-bodied, this deep, chewy, savory, broadly-flavored 2008 possesses sweet tannin, decent acidity and a long finish. Its 14% alcohol content is nearly as high as the 2009's and 2010's 14.5%. Already accessible, it should continue to age effortlessly for 20-25 years.

A ripe, flashy style, with alluring espresso and cocoa aromas giving way to layers of plum sauce, fig and prune. Dark and fleshy through the creamy-textured finish, with a flash of minerality checking in. Drink now through 2019.