2009 Alban Vineyards Pandora Edna Valley

Even richer and fuller on the palate, and capable of standing toe-to-toe with the best Grenaches in the world, the 2009 Pandora checks in as a blend of 95% Grenache and 5% Syrah that was aged in 64% new French oak. Coming from a single block of pure chalk soils, its inky purple color is followed by notions of blackberry, black cherry liqueur, smoked ham, vanilla and hints of chalky minerality that give way to a full-bodied, layered and voluptuously textured wine. Despite all of the fruit, it has beautiful mid-palate density and a big, ripe tannic structure. Count me a fan and don’t miss an opportunity to taste this wine! (JD) Review Date: August 2013