Labeled as “RGF” in America, the 2009 Talisman (RGF) is a “mystery blend” of 6 different varietals and was aged in 100% new barriques, 85% French and 15% American oak. It displays a very deep purple color and slightly reduced aromas to begin, giving way to blackberries and black cherry preserves over freshly cracked black pepper, dried plums and Indian spices plus a hint of cedar. Full bodied and with good concentration in the mouth, it has a medium to firm level of grainy tannins, crisp acid and a long peppery finish. Still a little taut, give it another year in bottle and drink it 2013-2018+. Importer: South Pacific Wines LLC, New York, NY

The 2008 Talisman states on my information sheet that it is a Bordeaux blend, but whether it’s the terroir or not, it seems to have something else going on. Very deep garnet-purple colored, it begins quite reductively with some rubber and tar aromas over-shadowing the fruit. With a fair bit of swirling this gives way to aromas of smoky bacon fat, blackberry, black cherry and anise. Medium-full bodied, crisp and with a medium level of rounded tannins, there’s a good amount of flesh in the mouth and a long finish. If I had to guess, I’d say there was some Syrah in there, though it’s not mentioned in the text. Drink it now to 2016. Importer: South Pacific Wines, New York, NY; tel. (646) 206 5083

The 2007 Talisman has beguiling purity on the nose: black cherries, hoi sin and even a hint of animal fur. Good definition and it blossoms in the glass. The palate is full-bodied, good density, quite symmetrical in the mouth, primal black fruits, very well balanced towards the ripe, toasty finish. Excellent – but what the hell is the blend? The mystery continues! Drink 2011-2018. Importer: South Pacific Wines LLC, 404 E 79th St #5A NY Ph 646 206 5083, email mei@southpacwines.com

A blend of six (secret) varieties produced since 1994. The nose is fresh and lively with coffee, black fruits, wine gums and a touch of cooked meats. A full-bodied palate, rich dark cherries, coca, dark chocolate, plum and loganberry. Big, dense, almost confect wine...but that is not in a pejorative sense as this is well-crafted Barolo-esque wine. Despite offers of bribes, the blend was not divulged! Have fun working it out yourself! Drink 2010-2015. Tasted January 2008.