96 pts - Wine Advocate
More European in style than some of its siblings, the 2008 exhibits good acidity, more noticeable tannin (but it is extremely young), and plenty of crushed rock, espresso roast and licorice characteristics intermixed with a volcanic minerality. Full-bodied, ripe and opulent, with a closed, formidable personality, it should be at its apogee between 2018 and 2035. - WA, RP (6/2012)
94 pts - Wine Spectator
A rich, supple, graceful style, with gentle layers of wild berry, plum, black licorice, crème de cassis and vanilla. Medium- to full-bodied, with silky tannins and great length. Drink now through 2022. 840 cases made. — JL (11/2011)
92 pts - Vinous
(15.5% alcohol): Bright medium red. Reticent yet already highly complex scents of blueberry, blackberry, wild herbs, licorice, cocoa powder and caraway seed. Hints at a glyceral ripeness but kept quite tight today by terrific acidity and a distinct herbal element. Nicely concentrated, brisk and saline, with a long, juicy finish that avoids greenness but shows a bit of acidity yet to be absorbed.- Stephen Tanzer (06/2016)