Iona One Man Band Red 2018

This is an unusual blend of syrah, edgy yet fragrant petit verdot and mourvedre with some viognier to add cush. It has a generous, quite rich and compelling nose of plum/blackberry jam, deep hibiscus florality, gentle clove and peppery spice and vanilla. It is full bodied, broad and hefty with alcohol power and warmth, firm but not austere tannin (thanks to the PV and MV) and all kinds of spice and garrigue on the finish. Excellent to outstanding length. This is really well designed if on the fringe for some. Tasted January 2023. Score – 93. (David Lawrason, winealign.com)