Darioush – Duel 2013 – Napa Valley

(65% Shiraz, 35% Cabernet Sauvignon) The nose is fruity, dense, powerful and offers a certain intensity. It reveals notes of black cherry, sour cherry and touches of Quetches plum associated with a hint of blackberry, cassis, cassis jam, fine notes of liquorice as well as a discreet touch of orange marmalade, cherry jam and a slight note of violet. The palate is fruity and offers a small minerality (in the background), juiciness, suavity, a small concentration as well as a silky matter. On the palate this wine expresses notes of juicy blueberry, cassis, blackberry and cassis jam associated with touches of raspberry, fine notes of licorice, a discreet touch of spice as well as a hint of grilled thyme and a few slight/discreet notes of wood. Tannins are fine and (very) slightly firm. There are notes of roasted oak on persistence.