The deep purple/garnet robe tempts the eye and entices to a nose of brandied cherries and mocha. The palate opens with a tangle of bright briar fruit, lavish hibiscus, luscious honey-berry black fig, and velvety plum. Spicy cola and cardamom add intricate notes and lead to a refined mineral/graphite streak (courtesy of the volcanic soils of the Alexander Valley) that gives the wine dimension and depth. The finish is firm and charged with fine tannins and a sweet velvety earth note that creates a beautifully balanced tension with the abundant fruit. Score - 95. (Panel, Sommeliers Choice Awards, 2020)