Blackbird Vineyards 2011 Arise 750ml

(61% merlot, 27% cabernet franc and 12% cabernet sauvignon): Bright medium red. Redcurrant, plum, licorice, milk chocolate and Christmas spices on the complex nose, lifted by a floral note. Rich, sweet, soft and easygoing, offering good density to its open-knit boysenberry, coffee and spice flavors. Juicy, aromatic blend with sweet tannins and no shortage of structure or grip.

Score: 90 points -- Stephen Tanzer, Vinous, May 2014