Medium-dark ruby; attractive, forward, intense, complex, herbal scented, cassis and blackberry fruit aroma with hints of green olive and vanilla; full body; big, rich, textured, extracted, chewy, dark cherry and blackberry fruit flavors; full tanin; lingering aftertaste. Shows both power and elegance with very good structure and balance. Very highly recommended.

The 2008 Reserve Claret emerges from the glass with expressive dark red fruit, licorice, leather and spices, revealing gorgeous length and persistence. Firm yet well-integrated tannins frame the fruit beautifully from start to finish. Hints of mocha and sweet spices linger on the close. There is an attractive fleshiness to the Claret that makes the wine approachable and enjoyable even today. Anticipated maturity: 2013-2023.

Rich and beautifully structured, with vivid aromas of red currant, fresh earth and toasty oak and intense yet still supple flavors of cherry and cedar. Tannins are dense but ripe. Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon. Best from 2013 through 2017.

(60% merlot and 40% Cabernet Sauvignon): Full ruby-red. High-toned aromas of urgent crushed blackberry, licorice and minerals. At once firm and plush, with excellent energy to the intense mountain berry flavors. Boasts a lovely light touch for such a rich, ripe wine. Finishes with suave, broad tannins and impressive length. Higher-toned than the 2009 version, and probably for enjoying earlier.