I refresh my supply of this wine on an annual basis. It’s delicious and long-lasting. The 2019 has arrived, but the 2018 is readily available and at great prices. Retailing at $20, the wine can be had for as little as $12.99. James Suckling’s review is right on, in my opinion: “A fresh, vivid red with cherries, currants and hints of hazelnuts and chocolate. Medium body. Racy finish. Like the vivid acidity that runs through this. Drink or hold." He gave the wine a 92-point score.
Wine Spectator rated it 88 points; too low, in my judgment, especially in light of the reviewer’s comments: “An open, light-bodied red, this emphasizes black cherry, blackberry and thyme flavors. Soft tannins and the right level of acidity make it very drinkable now. Merlot, Sangiovese, Petit Verdot, and Syrah. Drink now.” Now? Really? Not in my judgment, nor in the judgment of Wine Enthusiast: ” A blend of Merlot, Sangiovese, Petit Verdot, and Syrah, this has aromas of black-skinned berry, Mediterranean brush and a whiff of orange zest. The bright palate offers raspberry, cinnamon and white pepper alongside polished tannins and fresh acidity. Drink through 2025.” Because the 2015 I just opened was drinking beautifully, I’d say the 2018 should last through 2026 and maybe beyond.
I got mine from The Wine Buyer, where a case buy (shared with friends) brought me free shipping, saving me shipping costs of $3-$4 per bottle. Find other vendors easily on Google.
