The 2007 Chaleur Estate is composed of 65% Cabernet Sauvignon, 25% Merlot, with the balance Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot sourced from 4 vineyards with 95% of the fruit coming from the Red Mountain AVA. Deep crimson-colored, it offers up an enticing aromatic array of cigar box, Asian spices, mineral, herbs, violets, black currant, and blackberry. Medium to full-bodied, on the palate it is dense, savory, and structured with enough ripe tannin to evolve for another 3-4 years. It has a drinking window extending from 2013 to 2027. www.delillecellars.com

This wine is often closed down upon release, and the 2007 is no exception. Plan on putting it into the cellar, or give it many hours of decanting. It slowly opens with tightly layered red and blue fruits, baking spices, and hints of herb and seed. The finish turns a little chalky.——P.G.(8/1/2010)—— 91