Opaque ruby. An exotically perfumed bouquet evokes ripe dark berries, violet and vanilla, along with a smoky oak overtone. Sweet, seamless and expansive in the mouth, offering intense black and blue fruit flavors complemented by mocha and mineral flourishes. Supple tannins shape the smoky finish, which hangs on with impressive, dark-fruit-driven tenacity.

Pair this with lamb shank, roast beef, grilled steak and braised pork shoulder. For more casual fare, beef, lamb or bison burgers on the rare side and ropa vieja are good matches.