This attractive and sophisticated wine relies on a hearty portion of Merlot combined with the structure of Cabernet Sauvignon and aromatics of Cabernet Franc. Tobacco, toasted oak and roast coffee aromatics are greeted by flavors of black plum, sweet tobacco and dark chocolate, with a refreshing lift of fennel. Creamy, palate-coating tannins carry into a long finish for brooding and intriguing effect.

The 2021 Firebelle is a Merlot-based blend, now with a healthy dollop of Cabernet Franc that adds aromatic presence. Sweet red cherry, mint, white pepper, chalk, rose petal, dried flowers and mocha give this mid-weight, approachable 2021 compelling presence. This is very nicely done.

A blend of 62% Merlot, 21% Cabernet Sauvignon and 17% Cabernet Franc, the 2021 Firebelle is already showing a touch of brick at the rim, but it boasts pretty aromas of black tea and ripe cherries, a silky texture to its medium to full-bodied palate and a long, elegant finish. Drink it over the next several years.

A red Bordeaux blend, the 2021 Firebelle offers a pretty, perfumed, incredibly juicy style in its red (and some black) fruits as well as savory herbs, camphor, and loamy earth-like aromatics and flavors. This medium-bodied, incredibly drinkable 2021 has moderate concentration and light tannins, and it will shine for 7-8 years.