I first tried this wine in its raw form back in November during what Hillebrand calls their "buyers weekend" here folks can get a taste of the wines long before they are bottled and buy them based on potential - it's a kind of futures program. Well finally the 2010 Trius Red is out and I have to say that it has lived up to its potential. A blend of 43% Merlot and 30% Cabernet Franc backed by 27% Cabernet Sauvignon aged a total of 12 months in oak (30% new): 6 months as separate varieties, then another 6 blended together. The result of this tender, loving care is a wine rich in flavour and appealing aromas. At first sniff there are red raspberries, then with a few swirls and some time in glass blackberry, spice, sweet herbs and a hint of anise all make an appearance. The palate grabs your taste buds and just won't let go as there is just gobs of fruit here in the form of cherries and blackberries with some currants thrown in for good measure. A nice red fruit middle gives way to a smoky-raspberry-vanilla finish with just a hint of bite from those otherwise silky tannin, which weigh in at the end to keep it honest ... if it wasn't for the acidity in this wine I'd swear it was an Aussie blend. Great potential over the next 5+ years. Price: $21.95 - Rating: **** 1/2