Deep, inky purple which is surprising given the fact that it has 10 years of age already.  The walls show a touch of staining and the viscosity is medium (14% ABV).  The nose is developing nicely- cassis, cedar shake, blackberry coulis, tobacco, baking spices, vanilla bean, dried herbs and a touch of mint.  The palate is dry with medium acidity and medium (+) to full tannins that are still youthful and grippy.  Ripe black fruit along with some dried fruit point to the mid life development of this wine.  The oak nuance is present and the dried herbs are evident along with a black tea component.  Full bodied, this blend of Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah coats my mouth with lush fruit that goes on to a long finish which is somewhat astringent but inviting- I sip again.  I love this winery and the folks that run it (they are relatives for full disclosure).  They make a wine that has huge cellaring capacity yet drinks beautifully when young.  I have drunk many bottles of the same vintage over a long span of time and am always impressed by the development and further potential.  This wine will last till 2030 at the least and gets 93 points from me- at $25 a bottle it’s a tremendous deal that you should seek out.  I’m grilling New York strips to pair. with this 5 star effort.  Salut….