Bright ruby-red. Inky blackberry, licorice and menthol on the slightly port-like nose. Dense, sweet and surprisingly supple on the palate but still with a touch of inkiness to its broad blackcurrant, blackberry, licorice and graphite flavors. An element of peppery vinosity contributes to the impression of firmness, as do the tight tannins. This very long, savory wine is still a bit folded in on itself and will require patience. Interestingly, Leighton keeps this wine on its skin for "only" 35 days, which is actually less than many of his other red wines under the B. Leighton, K Vintners and Wines of Substance labels. He also destems this fruit.

Dark ruby at the core, the 2017 Petit Verdot Olsen Vineyard offers a dusty rigidity with elements of blackberry reduction, spiced plum compote and dark cherry skin with subtle baking spices in the glass. Medium to full-bodied, the wine offers firm tannins that will loosen in time, ending with a tight finish. Give this one more year in bottle or enjoy with food.