Bright ruby-red. Penetrating perfume of cassis, licorice, chocolate, herbs and tobacco, plus a cedary note that's typical of the site and a hint of blackberry from the Petit Verdot. Chewy, very rich wine with terrific inner-mouth energy and subtle violet, laurel and rose petal lift from the Cabernet Franc. The longest and most palate-staining of these 2015 reds to this point, with the late-arriving tannins coating the teeth without turning dry. Marty Clubb mentioned that this wine historically was from the highest or the oldest block in Seven Hills but that with more sites to choose from today, he now has more options for making this wine.
November 2018