Merlot, Cab Sauvignon, Cab Franc, Petit Verdot, Shiraz Medium-deep garnet colour. Some greenness on the nose - tomato leaf and capsicum over warm plums. Full bodied. Medium level of acid and medium-firm tannins that leave a bit of astringency and bitterness in the medium to long finish.

This is a very fine wine, Merlot-based with a splash of Syrah, and it proves you don’t have to spend a lot to get a great Napa red. It shows rich, complex flavors of black and red currants, licorice, cola and sandalwood, in an elegantly silky structure that’s light and refined.——S.H.(4/1/2010)—— 93