Allen Meadows - Score: 91 (2019 Jan.)

A wonderfully fresh if brooding nose combines notes of both red and dark cherry that are laced with hints of spice, violet and anise. The sleek and rich flavors possess fine mid-palate concentration yet there is a lovely refinement that is very Chambollesque in character to the mineral-inflected finale that is a bit awkward today. I underscore though that notwithstanding the refinement there is unusually good power and punch on the wonderfully long if distinctly austere finish. The balance isn't quite yet dialed in yet the impressive potential makes this worth the price of entry.