These old vines still have some life.
A compelling nose of sweet oak and dark, concentrated fruit with some coriander spice and a hint of dusty earth. Enough complexity to keep you interested. Full bodied and flavorful on the palate with lots of blackberry but a little sweet and, in the end, unbalanced. The tannins are too soft, exposing acidity on the medium length finish that leaves a sour impression, par for the course in cheap wine. The finish puts me off and ruins the experience. I guess that’s gnarly—well named.
Big and bold. just right for a barbecue. If you’re into fruit forward and ignore the finish you will like this.
Score: 87
Price: $9
Alc: 14.5%
Here’s an ode to old vines. John Fogerty from 2009, The Old Man is Down the Road
Exploring the Philosophy of Food and Wine 
Your score seems generous considering your assessment . . . .
I really enjoyed the aromatics compared to other wines at this price, and decided not to punish the finish too harshly.
Well written article. It will be helpful to anybody,
including me. Continue the good work. I can’t wait to read more posts.
Your review matches my experience well enough… It was ok when first opened, really bold with a heavy body (but too much fruit for me). I should have paired it with dinner, as a stand alone, it was a bit much (for me, due to the fruit forward aspect… not very complex). I didn’t notice the acidity or the soft tannins immediately. By day two, it was evident if not overwhelming. I ended up dumping the last 1/3 of the bottle, I couldn’t drink it with any pleasure. The blackberry was overwhelming to me on both days, way too dominant.
Your score makes sense though, under the right circumstances, it’s a solid wine for the price point and can hold it’s own against any meal. It’s just not to my personal liking.