This wine is always the pinnacle in the Patton Valley portfolio of complexity, structure and ageability. In this particular bottling, these characteristics are bolstered by a small percentage of whole-cluster fermentation. Up front, the wine is brimming with savory aromas of rye, caraway and candied yams. These aromas are softened by sweeter notes of almond, orange rind, licorice and sassafras, providing wonderful balance and range to the nose. Moving to the palate, this wine evokes flavors of black cherry, dried flowers, pluots (hybrid of a plum and an apricot), boysenberry and cinnamon. The finish is racy and commands attention with hints of smoked paprika, menthol and sweet cigar box.