A blend of 55% Merlot and 45% Cabernet Sauvignon. The cork was popped at 9:00 am, a half ounce poured off, then a neutral cork inserted before being transported and served at 7:00 pm. The wine took about 30 minutes to really open and hit its stride. Purple in color with a ruby rim, opaque and bright. The nose shows black cherries, cassis, smoke, slight chocolate, and leather. With air, a subtle earthiness emerges that is classic Bordeaux. Full bodied. Light tannins. On the palate, this is complex and deep. Cassis, black cherries, chocolate cigar box notes and earth. Layers that unwind in the glass. Long finish. This is (considering the prep) still on the youthful side of peak but no harm opening now with air. The two grapes seemed nicely balanced which may change moving forward. Great on its own, this was perfect with a restaurant made black bean burger and fried egg. Drink over the next ten to fifteen years if well stored. This bottle still had the "Premier Cru" wine store label on the back prior to their difficulties.
