13.5% alc./vol. $14.95 at Vintages. Solid, high-quality natural cork closure.
Very dark ruby-garnet with a scarlet tinge. After two hours' decanting, the wine opened up to show pleasant, licorice-tinged violets and dust; a very fleshy, Merlot-defined nose. Very balanced with bright but well-apportioned acidity; a chalky/fleshy mid-palate, and expansive, fleshy tannins. Very fine breadth on the mid-palate. Warm, balanced finish.
This went very well with filet mignon, which I grilled up with just a touch of applewood smoke.