Ruby red color with edges that fade into a pinky amber. The heat definitely comes through on the nose, as do mineral notes and rubbing alcohol. A blip of dried cherries peeps through on the nose and palate, but when you sip, the heat of the alcohol lingers rather than any fruit or earth notes. Slight cherry, raspberry and spicy pine notes show up mid-sip, but diminish rather early. Pair with anything to cut the alcohol, perhaps a creamy cows milk chesse and 9-grain bread.