2010 Quintet

(made from 47% cabernet sauvignon, 30% merlot, 14% cabernet franc, 5% petit verdot and 4% malbec; 12.7% alcohol): Inky ruby. Primary aromas of dark berries, cherry pit, chocolate and candied rose. Densely packed and sharply delineated, with bright acidity adding lift and cut to the wine's bitter cherry and cassis flavors. Finishes with thoroughly silky, sweet tannins, a jolt of peppery spices and excellent tangy persistence.