2003 Cabernet Sauvignon-Shiraz Black Label

(53% shiraz, 40% cabernet sauvignon and 7% malbec) Inky purple. Explosive dark berry and kirsch aromas are liberally dosed with vanilla and baking spices; cherry-vanilla and cured tobacco qualities emerge as the wine opens in the glass. Lush, creamy and almost sweet, with jammy dark berry flavors veering in a liqueur-like direction but saved by surprising energy and lift. The intense dark fruit and oak flavors extend through an endless, palate-coating finish. Not for traditional palates but this is awfully impressive.