Those who miss the John Abbott Merlots from his years at Canoe Ridge can take heart. This first-time Abbott Merlot from his new winery, Abeja, is a gem. Fragrant, beautifully rendered aromas of primary red fruits, cocoa and licorice set up firm streaks of black tea, smoke and concentrated black cherry. There is just enough new oak to support, but not dominate, the beautiful, polished fruit.——P.G.(12/31/2006)—— 91