The 1999 Merlot (a blend of 93% Merlot and 7% Cabernet Franc, 61% from Napa and 39% from Sonoma) is a wine of striking purity, balance, density, and intensity. A saturated ruby/purple color is accompanied by great fruit, medium to full body, and perfectly assimilated wood, acidity, tannin, and alcohol. Several more years of cellaring will result in even more joy. Anticipated maturity: 2003-2016. Tel. (707) 963-4949; Fax (707) 963-6039

What power and drama have gone into this wonderful wine. Sheer Pomerol, with pencil shaving, black cherry, cedar, chocolate and gamy-meaty aromas and flavors, tinged with violets, and the most voluptuous mouthfeel. Sheer hedonism right through the long sweet finish. ——S.H.(6/1/2002)—— 94