Metaphorically, the 2016 Hudson Phoenix is a velvet hammer, aromas of spicy candied apple, plum and anise from the wine which is stylishly forward, round with structure and a silky finish.

Robert Parker's Wine Advocate - 94 points: "The 2016 Phoenix is composed of 68% Merlot and 32% Cabernet Franc from a collection of four separate vineyards on the ranch. Medium to deep garnet-purple colored, it reveals an incredible perfume of kirsch, black plums, red currant jelly and red roses with touches of black tea, pencil shavings, cinnamon stick and underbrush plus wafts of black raspberries and crushed rocks. Medium to full-bodied, it fills the palate with tons of juicy plums and raspberry inspired flavors with bags of savory and mineral nuances plus a firm, rounded tannins frame, finishing long and earthy."