2009 Behrens Family Erna Schein Petite Sirah Kick Ranch

(includes 5% cabernet sauvignon): Aromas of blackberry, licorice and mint. Dense, sweet and large-scaled; a bit monolithic today in its sheer power. Highly concentrated flavors of black raspberry, chocolate and cocoa powder. This huge wine (16.1% alcohol) is thick-verging-on-gritty but boasts solid lift. Will time in bottle bring more complexity? I'd pair this with barbecued ribs.