Deep, opaque purple color. Initial aromatics are subtle-this wine will benefit from decanting, especially as it warms from cellar temperature. Spice, sweet tobacco and plummy berry fruit on the nose, with some earthy elements. Easy, silky and bittersweet on the palate, increasing in berry fruit and palate depth with air. Fine-textured, firm tannins make this wine easy to drink, and versatile with a wide variety of hard cheeses. Also consider grilled meats, especially lamb chops, hearty stews and other moderately rich dishes.