In the glass this is clear, medium ruby red with a garnet rim. Medium intensity nose of cherries black and red; an almost-cinnamon spice, and a bit of wood. Dry, medium acidity and medium-plus tannins. Ripe black cherries dominate in the mouth, along with raspberry and plum; again a spiciness with a nice supporting kick from the 14.5% alcohol. Quite fruity and bold and nicely balanced. Medium finish. This is 66% Grenache, 21% Mourvèdre, 13% Shiraz. I haven’t had a lot of Grenache and will have to explore further; it seems to have much of the quality of Shiraz without being, for want of a better word, quite so obvious about its fruit.

$41 at Kitsilano Wine Cellar, a gift from my father. See Penfolds.