This is a label I’ve had several times in the past. It’s by no means bad, but not something I’d go out of my way to buy, so it occupies a somewhat ambivalent position in my mind. Poured into a Riedel Bordeaux glass, it shows a deep ruby hue. Even after five years, there’s hardly any sign of maturity at the rim. On the nose, there are notes of black cherry, cassis, licorice, star anise, and dark chocolate. On the palate, the fruit is rich and dense, with well-ripened tannins giving it a stately presence. The downside is a slightly prickly acidity that stands out a bit too much. Unlike some Spanish or Italian wines, it doesn’t hit you with overwhelming concentration or high alcohol, making it easy enough to enjoy with a casual dinner. Still, it’s not the kind of wine you find yourself reaching for glass after glass. Perhaps this is where it differs from a Bordeaux Cabernet.