Mike Smith is the winemaker here and produces some of the top wines in the world. This is an interesting vintage. Initially, it looked like it would be amazing, but many of the wines seemed to get almost to that point and just stopped. Still outstanding, but not quite the overall quality of say 2013 or 2014. I think that is true for this wine although that is clearly nit-picking and most wineries only dream of getting to this level of quality. Inky purple in color, opaque and bright. The nose has cassis, spices and char. A really great, plush texture. Tannins are mostly resolved but not completely. On the palate, cassis, slight blueberries and spice with some underlying char and earth. Long finish. Delicious. This should drink well for another ten to fifteen years. It drinks well on its own and would work well with prime rib or a steak.
