Very slight clearing around the rim. A beautiful melange of blacks fruits, flowers and spices, with deep rich and totally captivating multi-varietal aromas. A giant wine on the palate. Again, reminded me of a top Chateauneuf du Papes, but with a stronger grip and even a wider spectrum of flavors. Multi-layered, complex and immensely satisfying.
Abundant tannins are still there though they are soft and palpable.
Don't know how, but it went beautifully with the delicate brains dish. Simply never ending. Although the tannins do give a slight feel of dryness at the finish, the aftertaste somehow manages to leave the palate with sweetish touch. A huge wine in every respect. Extremely well endowed yet so finely balanced as to hint at reserves rather than overflow.