91 Robert Parker - Robert Parker's Wine Advocate

"The 2006 Optimus consists of 50% Cabernet Sauvignon, 45% Syrah, and 5% Petit Verdot. It reveals the exuberance of a northern Rhone, but the structure of a top Bordeaux. It is more elegant, but less understated and concentrated than the 2005. Notes of chocolate, coffee, blackberries, and tar are present in both the aromatics and attack, but then the wine closes down, displaying plenty of structure, muscle, and tannin. This 2006 clearly needs several years of bottle age to round into shape. Anticipated maturity: 2010-2016."

"Inky purple. Cherry-vanilla and blueberry on the nose, with suave spice and floral qualities adding complexity. Juicy dark berry flavors give way to deeper plum and dark chocolate with air and deliver refreshing spicy lift on the back end. The sweet finish features excellent cut and persistence." -91 points- Josh Raynolds- International Wine Cellar