A mix of older fruit (planted in 1985) and some younger stuff (planted in 2001). This Merlot shows weight (14.5%) and power without being sloppy. The nose is chocolate and blueberry with mocha / coffee notes ... palate is really juicy with red fruit: cherry jam sweetness without the cloying stickiness, leading to white peppered cherries and strawberries on the finish. There's also an interesting mineral / stony quality that adds depth. Price: $32.00 - Rating: ****+