2009 Larkmead LMV Salon

Saturated ruby-red. Aromas of exotic dark berries, graphite, licorice and menthol are lifted by a minty element. Impressively dense in the mouth, even a bit liqueur-like, conveying a sexy creaminess to its flavors of cassis, black raspberry, chocolate and menthol; the wine's small Merlot component comes through loud and clear. Perhaps a bit more medicinal and less consistently ripe than the '09 Solari but finishes chocolatey and long, with smooth tannins. (ST)

Saturated medium ruby. The somewhat medicinal nose suggests a less pliant wine than the Solari Reserve, offering aromas of black fruits, violet, menthol, bitter chocolate and fresh herbs. More savory than sweet and less pliant than the Solari Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon. Distinctly firm-edged, even a bit rigid, in comparison but the solidly tannic finish displays intriguing soil tones. This very concentrated wine still needs time.

Larkmead's 2009 Proprietary Red Wine LMV Salon is distinguished for its centeredness, focus and minerality. Graphite, smoke, plums, red cherries and tobacco are all woven together beautifully here. The 2009 is rich, layered and sensual, but with more than enough structure to support aging. Sweet floral notes and a burst of juicy red berries add complexity on the finish. The 2009 is 63% Cabernet Sauvignon, 16% Cabernet Franc, 16% Malbec and 5% Merlot.