"This shows wonderful length with subtle dark fruits as well as mint, floral and walnut undertones. Full body, with fine tannins that give this wine energy and focus. It's long and flavorful. A blend of 67% cabernet sauvignon, 25% carmenere, 5% cabernet franc, 2% merlot and 1% petit verdot. Give this until 2017 to soften."
93 Wine Enthusiast
"Berry aromas with a mineral twang lead to notes of earth, olive and freshly fallen leaves. As per usual for Almaviva, the palate is round and smooth as silk. Blackberry, cassis, toasty oak and cocoa powder flavors finish creamy and oaky, but this still holds the line and is perfectly balanced for the long haul. Best from 2016 through 2022."
92 Wine Spectator
Big, rich and ripe, with well-structured flavors of dried berry, savory herb, smoke and spice. Firm tannins balance the lively minerality midpalate. Cocoa powder notes show on the muscular finish. Drink now through 2020. 12,900 cases made. –KM