Simply put, this is one of the great wines of the world. Deep violet. Heady black and blue fruit, incense, vanilla, and floral oil scents take on suggestions of vanilla and licorice with air. Palate-coating, spice-accented cassis, cherry-vanilla, mocha, and fruitcake flavors are underscored by a vein of juicy acidity. Manages to come off both rich and energetic. The impressively long, smoky finish is framed by steadily building tannins.