2005 Esprit

The 2005 Esprit, a blend of 40% Grenache, 34% Shiraz, with the balance Cinsault, Mataro, and Carignan, was aged for 20 months in French oak. Purple-colored, it exhibits aromas of garrigue, damp earth, blueberry, blackberry, and black cherry. Very Chateauneuf du Pape-like, the wine is full-bodied; smooth textured, and has superb depth and balance. The wine is structured and will benefit from 6-8 years of bottle age. Drink it through 2025. Oct 2007, www.robertparker.com