Fermentation was temperature controlled, then spent 12 months in American oak casks; once bottled spent the first six months in stow in a specially conditioned environment. Shiny appearance, ruby red colur & intense as ripe cherries; on the palette it is balanced, rounded with tones of red fruit like blackberries, oak, vanilla & tobacco. The recommended pairing is dishes based on meat, pasta, cheese & not as an appetizer. Serve between 60°F & 65°F.