ONX Praetorian

Notes of Raspberry, Some Spice, Lots of Tannin.

3h air for this unique field blend. Medium ruby color. Aromas of dark cherry, raspberry, pepper, dried leaves, with hints of florality, licorice and BBQ sauce. Big and dense, with a satiny entry, red berries dominate, supported by firm chalky tannins. There's a slight cough syrup quality towards the finish. At this stage, flatters to deceive a bit between nose and palate, with the complexity and aromatic interest not quite matched by the taste. Going to leave the remaining two …

Gave this blend of 65% Tempranillo, 18% Malbec and 17% Grenache from Paso Robles 4h air after reading through TN's. Medium ruby color. Notes of cherry, dried blueberry, pepper, dried leaves, wet gravel and florality. Opulent on the palate: medium-full bodied, creamy texture, cherry and black fruit, pepper, with spicy and earthy notes streaking the finish. Grippy tannins provide ample strucuture, which this needs, given that it clocks in at a very hot 15.4% ABV, which you can definitely feel. …

Aerated upon opening and had a sip. Started out kind of old world, tight with acid and a hint of funk and predominant black pepper. Nice food wine I thought. Would have given it 89 at that point. Then waited 2+ hours until dinner and it was a little softer with big mouthfeel, structure and fine tannin, and currant fruit had shown up. Would have given it 90 at that point. Worth the money I thought. Asked my wife and …