Dark ruby purple core with blue/black secondary hue, a medium rim with thick tears showing slight staining on the glass. Aromatic and complex with ripe red cherry, black currant and a little berry with vanilla, cinnamon and licorice spice, cedar and graphite notes, oak, leather, dried autumn leaves and a minty hint of camphor. Moderate plus to full bodied, dry, with ripe cherry and cassis mixed with baking spice on entry joined by cedar and oak on the mid-palate with complex savory, herbal elements. The finish is long, balanced and clean, with returning red and black fruit and perfectly proportioned, fine, mouth-filling tannins. The 2016 JUSTIFICATION is elegant with a perfect balance of fruit, savory and textural elements making it a versatile food pairing wine. Try it with a wide range of dishes from Rotissierie Chicken, or Duck Confit, to Entrecote Bordelaise et pomme frites, a classic regional dish from Bordeaux of pan seared steak with a red wine shallot and thyme pan sauce served with crispy fries.