Dramatic, intense and powerful, the 2016 Amon Ra Shiraz recalls the 2004 in its youth, crammed with layers of fruit, complex, savory elements and rich, velvety tannins. It's full-bodied, characterized by notes of grilled meat, espresso, black olive, cassis, vanilla, baking spices and an undercurrent of loamy earth. Yes, it's unapologetically big and bold, the product of a warm, sunny climate and ripe grapes, but it does show a sense of decorum, restraint and elegance on the long finish.

As dense in color as it is in aroma and flavor, this latest vintage is a rich, chocolatey, oak lacquered wine that oozes raisiny, plummy fruit, dried violets, black licorice, chocolate cake and oak spice. There's a wealth of acid and tannin structure, coupled with plump fruit and a wood spice finish to set this wine up for plenty of years in the cellar. Drink 2020-2038 and likely beyond.