Inky ruby color. Brooding aromas of cherry-cola, licorice, smoky Indian spices and cured tobacco. Deeply concentrated dark berry and bitter cherry flavors are sweetened by notes of vanilla and licorice pastille, and are complemented by a mounting spiciness and an exotic floral quality. More tannic on the finish, which is refreshingly bitter and strongly repeats the spice and cola notes. I'd lose this in the cellar for at least another five years.

The 2007 Serpico Cabernet Sauvignon offers up toast, chocolate covered cherries, and mineral notes. Structured and a bit compact, it will round out with a few more years of bottle age but without the generosity normally associated with this cuvee.

The partially dried grapes that are used in this wine give it an intensely aromatic and unique character that resembles cherry liqueur, with sprigs of green herbs for garnish. It's medium-bodied, with an easy, supple style that fades a bit rapidly on the finish.

Firm in texture, with a meaty character wedging into the ripe black cherry and smoke flavors. Drink now through 2012.