2012 Optima

Bright, deep ruby-red. Medicinal black cherry and licorice on the rather old-style nose; I'm not wild about the oak element here--or the hint of adhesive tape. Shows more sweetness and texture than the 2011 but still in a rather clenched, gritty, medicinal style, more noteworthy for its power than its drinkability. Strong licorice and menthol notes along with palate-saturating, slightly drying tannins on the finish. A bit rustic and overbearing but persistent.