Blackbird Arise Red 2010

(61% merlot, 20% cabernet franc and 19% cabernet sauvignon; the highest in alcohol of these 2010 reds, at 14.8%; the other three show 14.5% on the label): Dark red with ruby highlights. Sexy aromas of black raspberry, dark chocolate, licorice, minerals and flowers. Sappy and densely packed, with crushed raspberry, kirsch and licorice flavors accented by distinctly cool pepper and herb notes. There's explosive black cherry fruit here but this sharply delineated, vibrant wine is extremely young and clenched today. The firm tannins are more than supported by strong fruit. Finishes with terrific energy and sneaky length. Score - 90(+ ?). (Stephen Tanzer, International Wine Cellar, May/June 2013)