Of any of the Equuleus wines I have tried over the years this is the most approachable right from the get-go. A blend of the big three: Cabernet Sauvignon (50%), Cabernet Franc (25%) and Merlot (25%) aged 12 months in oak. The nose shows blueberry, chocolate and raspberry with a palate that's complex yet approachable. There's cocoa powder, especially on the finish; the blue and black berries make up the juicy core, while there's also a spice texture that goes mid-palate to finish. You'll also find some herbal tones with a red and black fruit mix that emerges as the wine sits in glass for half an hour or more. A nice tannin backbone that sits more delicately than grippily on the tongue. This wine drinks well now, but will also shows signs of being able to age nicely over the next 10-12 years. This big horse is a real winner. Price: $40.00 - Rating: **** 1/2