Reds that impress you with their richness, intensity, weight, or majesty; Usually produced from small, thick-skinned red varieties, which give off both tannin and color to the wine; Those are powerful reds with obvious structure, full-body, lots of tannin and high in alcohol; The fruit flavors often suggest dark-berries, currant fruits, it can occasionally leaning toward dried-fruit of jam, raisin & fig and oak flavor often accompanying them
1988-Youthful and vigorous beneath a polished surface, with currant, blackberry and chocolate flavors that resonate on the finish. Unobtrusive tannins allow the flavors to ring true.
2001-Loads of crushed berries on the nose, with hints of flowers and minerals. Very aromatic. Full-bodied, with fine tannins and a long, cappuccino and berry aftertaste. Really refined. Best after 2009. –JS