The color of vibrant raspberries, the nose is filled with smoked, roasted walnuts and a touch of brambleberry. This is a big, muscular Merlot with an abundance of blackberry, Mission figs, and anise on the mid-palate. Seamless, elegant layers appear on the finish, with more black fruits, followed by persistent, tongue-dusting tannins. The long finish reflects the subtlety and elegance of Merlot as a varietal.

93 Points, Connoisseurs Guide (March 2008): "...exhibits extraordinary richness and depth. It is all Merlot in its supple tactile impressions, and yet it shows a nice spine of supporting tannin that brings just the right bit of black-palate grip.  There is no let up in either richness or ripe-cherry fruit in its lingering finish..."

91 Points, Wine Spectator (Nov, 15, 2007): "Bold aromas of blackberry and smoky oak open to plush cassis and spice flacors that take on depth and richness toward the long finish."

Hold up to 10 years.

This wine was featured in The California Wine Club's wine of the month club.