It’s been a while since I had a bottle of the Faithful Hound, so when I saw it- had to be done even though the new label is completely boring compared to the older versions!  The wine looks a touch cloudy and semi opaque in the glass.  The nose shows off nice plums, blackberry and licorice notes.  The palate is very juicy with a nice plum core, very fine grained tannins that are not obtrusive at all and a decent graphite note.  The mid palate gives me more dark fruit and a jolt of that acidity, it’s rather pleasing.  The finish is a touch dry but not overbearing.  The licorice and graphite notes are very prominent.  Blackberry jam features as well.  It lasts a good 20 seconds.  A tasty, easy drinking wine that will pair well with a variety of foods.  Drink till 2025.  89 points, and 4 stars for this $17 Bordeaux blend.  Salut….