Earthy aromas open up into cocoa, blackberry, cedar, and anise. The entry is smooth with flavors of cherry, chocolate, vanilla, and a mild toastiness. The finish is long with balanced acidity.
While working with their growers in the Napa Valley, the winery came across small, premium vineyard lots of Merlot, which managed to escape being replanted to Cabernet Sauvignon. This served as the inspiration to create Thorn. The sources of Merlot were blended with Syrah to create depth in the body while Malbec accentuates the fruit.
The label artwork is a photograph of a wire wolf sculpture entitled, “Thorn” by Portuguese artist, David Oliviera.