Pretty wine obtained nicely by Giggs. ... Very dark with interesting floral/spice nose. ... Light on the palate. ... Herbs, but fennel came through the most. ... Very consistent from start to finish, almost "old" in the taste. Paired with sharp cheese there was a burst of taste toward the end of the bottle; got better as it went and sweetened up a bit.

Revisited with success. ... Decanted two hours or so. ... Initial odor was cherry, cherry, and more cherry, which went along with the deep color. ... Similar drinking experience as before; cheese brings out some sweetness. ... Interesting spicy licorice mix. ... All in all just a nice wine with or without edibles.

This wine was the star of the night. ... Tart, wood smoke, spice, and even a hint of green vegetables. ... Doesn't jump out at you in any way but very smooth from start to finish. ... A lot going on for my still-inexperienced wine palate but just liked everything about the experience. Paired with some sharp cheese.

Last of four wines for the night, so perhaps the rating is unfair. ... Liked the nose of church incense combined with earthy tones such as a tilled garden. ... Earthiness trumped the fruitiness but not in a bad way. Should probably revisit this wine under better circumstances to challenge the rating.