2010 Villa Creek The Avenger

A rich, explosive wine, the 2010 Avenger blossoms in the glass nicely as layers of fruit fill out its big, broad shouldered frame. Dark red cherries, plums, menthol and spices all show gorgeous clarity and pure nuance throughout. In 2010, the greater presence of Mourvedre is felt in the wine's depth and volume. The 2010 is a little bit bigger than the 2011 and every bit as compelling. The 2010 is 60% Syrah, 30% Mourvedre and 10% Grenache.

(60% syrah, 30% mourvedre and 10% gernache): Inky ruby. Flamboyantly aromatic dark berry aromas are complicated by a wild array of flowers, Indian spices and pungent herbs. At once ripe and energetic, offering outstanding clarity to its black and blue fruit flavors; a sexy violet pastille nuance builds with air. Finishes sappy and very long, with a strong whiplash of candied flowers.

More upfront and with a sweeter core of fruit than the High Road, yet still one of the more structured versions of this cuvee I’ve tasted, the 2010 Villa Creek Avenger is a blend of 60% Syrah, 30% Mourvedre, and 10% Grenache that was fermented with 30% whole cluster and aged in 50% new French oak. It has effusive aromas of sweet raspberries, baking spices, ground pepper, dried coffee, and floral qualities emerging from the glass. This is followed by a full-bodied, supple, and textured wine that has solid mid-palate concentration, beautifully freshness, and a substantial amount of tannin that emerges on the lengthy, chewy finish. Give bottles another handful of years in the cellar, and drink over the following decade.