This wine begins with a powerful nose that leads with rich Bennett Valley grown Syrah. Black cherries, boysenberry and vanilla prevail on the palate. The Merlot fruit contributes a slight hint of smoke, resulting from basalt, an ancient ocean floor rock found in Bennett Valley soil. The concentration and intensity of Bennett Valley-grown Merlot provides for an exceptionally full mid-palate and what Winemaker Francois Cordesse refers to as a uniquely long Cudali, translated as a 'finish that continues well after the wine is swallowed.