Blackbird Vineyards Illustration 2018

It is a Merlot-led, right-bank-inspired red that bursts with aromas of black cherry, coffee, licorice, porcini, and toasted coconut. Twenty-one months in 75 % new French oak layer in dark chocolate, mocha, and warm baking-spice notes. On the palate, plush blackberry-plum fruit meets supple tannins, vibrant acidity, and a streak of graphite minerality. The finish sails on coffee-cocoa richness and lifted floral spice, promising pleasure now and graceful evolution through 2036.

Food pairing: Pairs best with herb-crusted lamb, rosemary ribeye, duck breast, porcini risotto, truffle burgers, aged Gouda, peppercorn steak, and dark-chocolate torte dessert.