PASO ROBLES | CALIFORNIA | $72
Superbly integrated showing deep blackberry fused with earthy redwood, cocoa, tobacco and chalk. Notes of dried dark fruit, forest floor and clove, and a texture of suede further the experience. Fruit and savory flavors exist as one in this complex, well-balanced universe. There is no separation of the species: One’s sunset is another’s sunrise — from where does the water come to rise the tides, and where does it go when they ebb? How can it be that 15.8% alcohol, undetected, yields a medium-bodied wine? Oh, that spiritual miracle is in this bottle. 40% Syrah, 40% Grenache, 20% Mourvèdre. Nothing less than a most excellent wine. (Reviewed 10/13/12)