Nose: In the glass, the wine displays classic notes of raspberry jam, mocha, and a subtle hint of baking spices. After a few minutes, the bouquet opens to reveal lush aromas of toasty cedar, crème de cassis, and fresh blackberry. Palate: A complex interplay of sweet French oak, subtle earth, and a chewy minerality that devoted Montelena fans will instantly recognize. The mid palate is clean and fresh with rhubarb pie, strawberry candy, and just a touch of smoky espresso that become incredibly pronounced with additional time in the glass. Finish: The transition to the finish is seamless, and will only improve with age. Here the refreshing acidity, rounded tannin, and intense fruit vie for the spotlight. Upon release, the soft tannins seem to win out as the dense texture lingers, inviting another sip from the glass.