I love getting a sneak peak at a soon-to-be-released wine (makes you feel like an insider), but the problem with a sneak peak is that you have to be careful. Some wineries are looking for input so they can "finish" the wine, while others are just waiting for labels; it boils down to the difference between a barrel sample and a bottled sample. This wine was a bottle sample from the 2009 vintage, I was so impressed, because you hear such horror stories about '09, that I had to ask the owner the barrel or bottle question. The nose is decent with wood spice and peppery nuances masking most of the fruit, but the palate comes alive with spiced cherry, red berries (like strawberries) and nice tannins, all leading to a nice blueberry finish. Only 180 cases made. Not a long timers, but a good timer, drink over the next 2-3 years. Price: $18.95 - Rating: ****+