2007 Chateauneuf du Pape

Deep ruby. Smoky aromas of dark berries and kirsch, with complicating floral and herbal qualities. Pungent dark fruit and bitter cherry flavors are framed by dusty tannins and become sweeter with air. Very concentrated but slow to give up much until it gets some air. The impressively long, smoky, mineral-driven finish features a sweet note of cherry preserves. This serious, gripping wine deserves some cellar time. (Martine's Wines, Novato CA