We're running out of stock in the cellar. That's nothing I'm pleased to report, but this hobby is pricey and publishing demands frequency in order to maintain audience retention. Today takes us to Livermore Valley, across the country from where I sit and type this in very autumnal weather. I wish I was there instead of here, but let's get on with this and escape for a bit.
Nose: Dark and spicy, surprisingly so. There's a definite funk from the oak that's hard to miss. Letting it sit for a bit lets the oak settle and there's quite a bit of dark fruit on subsequent passes. It lightens up and there are traces of cinnamon, clove and caramel which come through.
Palate: Arrives with that spice blend and blackberry in the lead, the whole thing accentuated with more oak and a touch of pepper that lingers. The palate gets spicier as it goes along, but it's quite approachable with good texture, firm tannins and enough acidity to keep things interesting.
Finsh: Long and savory. The fruit oscillates with the oak and spice nicely before resting on a bit of spiced jam and clove that lingers on.
This is absolutely ready to drink now, and I regret not getting to it sooner. Very complex and challenging.
$44