2004 Scala Dei Cartoixa

(41% garnacha, 30% cabernet sauvignon and 29% syrah) Deep ruby. Cherry-vanilla and blackberry preserves on the oaky nose and palate. Broad and supple in texture, with sweet dark berry flavors framed by gentle tannins. The vanilla and oak spice notes come back on the finish, which is long, sappy and nicely persistent. Pretty sexy if you don't mind the wood; I wonder if the deep fruit will outlast it. (Vinum International, Napa, CA, Aveniu Brands, Columbia, MD