SANTA BARBARA | CALIFORNIA | $32
Medium bodied with purple plum, cherry and rhubarb fruit. Hints of graphite and spice. Slightly grassy and floral. Shows amazing balance and restraint (12.5% alcohol) with a light mouth feel and a silky texture. Mature and civilized — the thoughtful, under-control type: much to appreciate, so few thrills. Rembrandt not Van Gogh. A very good wine. (Reviewed 10/18/11)