2012 Archaeus

(77% syrah, 12% mataro and 11% grenache): Bright purple. Wild, smoky aromas of ripe dark fruits, leather and game, with a suggestion of licorice. Big, broad and sweet, offering decadent blackberry liqueur and plum jam flavors and a strong note of grilled meat. Not for the fainthearted but there's a lot going on here; whether or not that's a good thing depends on your aromatic proclivities. Finishes sweet, smoky and very long, with supple tannins coming on late and folding into the wine's fruit.