The deep ruby/purple-tinged 2004 Grand Reserve Merlot (80% Sonoma and 20% Napa fruit) reveals notes of mocha, coffee beans, berries, spice, and white chocolate. Although ready to consume, it should keep nicely for 5-6 years. Tel. (800) 769-3649; Fax (800) 600-5985

A serious Merlot. Well-oaked, it shows lots of crowd-pleasing caramel, toast, vanilla and sweet woody flavors, but the fruit, acids and tannins are fully supportive of all that oak. Cherries, black raspberries and mocha flavors are pure and refined, leading to a dry finish. Drink this elegant wine now through 2010.——S.H.(6/1/2007)—— 91