Not to be confused with the “natural fermentation” Merlot (priced at $40), this Merlot abound with cherries and dark chocolate on the nose. Currently, it’s a wee bit tight in the mouth, but with a little aeration and/or some decanting, you can definitely see where this one is going to end up. Cassis and blackberries kick things off in the mouth, giving a very juicy mouth-filling performance; there’s also a pocketful of tannins that accost the tongue before things turn all red fruit and sweet on the finish … This is not to say that this is a sweet wine, but it sure does give that impression on the lovely finish. For enjoyment now, decant, or sit it for another couple of years – best 2010-2012. Price: $18.00