Opaque purple. Heady aromas of candied blackberry, blueberry and licorice, complicated by pungent notes of vanilla, violet and allspice. Lush, intensely flavored and broad, offering deep dark berry and cherry compote flavors and an exotic floral nuance. Finishes smooth and very long, with resonating spiciness, a hint of licorice and sweet tannins.

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The 2009 Grenache explodes from the glass with layers of silky, expressive fruit. Most of the wine's charms are in its up-front, juicy personality. Overall, I find a little less complexity and length than in the 2008, but some of that may be because the wine was only bottled four weeks before this tasting. There is an immediacy in the 2009 that should allow it to drink well upon release. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2019.

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Pure and grapey, with floral berry aromatics and an elegant band of red cherry, berry and strawberry flavors. Firms nicely at midpal- ate and ends with an elegant aftertaste.

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