2008 BenMarco Expresivo

Wine Advocate
"92 pts ... Dark ruby red in color, it displays an already complex bouquet of wood smoke, Asian spices, incense, and assorted black fruits. On the palate it is supple-textured, rich, and plush with no hard edges. There is a bit of underlying tannin in this lengthy effort which is likely to evolve for several more years."

Wine Spectator
"90 pts ... Very ripe for the vintage, boasting impressive layers of raspberry, red and black currant, cherry and licorice that weave through, carried by graphite, spice and floral notes. Bright acidity is well-buried, allowing the finish to stretch out."

Stephen Tanzer
"91 pts ... Deep, sexy aromas of currant, coffee bean, mocha, game and truffle. Lush and smooth in the mouth, with lovely definition and a light touch to its smoky black raspberry flavor. Finishes with suave, fine-grained, integrated tannins and very good subtle persistence."

Winemaker's Notes
"Wafting aromas of red currants, black cherries and mildly smoky and sweet vanilla oak. Layers of currant fruit, dense black cherry, and notes of brown spice (cocoa, nutmeg), dark chocolate, and hints of sandalwood. Keeps showing its stuff as it breathes in the glass-- for folks who want the full experience and may be a bit impatient, decanting is a good idea. Perfect balance, great concentration and length, and loaded with fine, ripe tannins for having with food or for aging. This wine should also age beautifully for 10-25 years. Pairs well with a wide range of foods including grilled steak, roasted pork loin, veal, medium-strong cheeses, and most cream sauces."

Technical Notes
" 50% Malbec, 20% Syrah, 15% Cabernet Sauvignon, 10% Tannat, 5% Petit Verdot. From 40-year old vines grown at 3300'. 14 months in 70% new French and 30% new American oak barrels. 14% alc."