Medium+ ruby in colour with a medium to medium+ intensity on the nose.

Positives: This is not a jammy Zin that you only taste prunes. This wine is well balanced showing notes of raisins, dark cherry, plums, tobacco leaves, raspberry, blackberry & lots of spice. The nose has a nice smokey note that reminds me of chimney smoke from wood burning in a cold winter's night. Medium body with medium tannins, good acidity & long length.

Negatives: Lots of heat coming from the 15% alcohol.

Interesting Note: Taste more like a Washington Syrah than a Zin. Drink on its own or pair it with T-bone steak. Drinkable now or over the next 3 years. Decant for an hour & you'll be rewarded with a smoother taste.

Tasted: 13 Mar 12

Score: 9+/10, Value: 8.5/10, Total: 18/20

Out of 5 stars, I rated this wine: 4.5