The outstanding 2003 Highland Estates Merlot Taylor Peak (100% Merlot aged 18 months in 45% new French oak) exhibits notes of coffee bean, mocha, white chocolate, black cherries, and currants. Ripe and rich, with abundant tannin, this impeccably made Merlot should age graciously for 10-12 years. Tel. (800) 769-3649; Fax (800) 600-5985

The outstanding 2003 Highland Estates Merlot Taylor Peak (100% Merlot aged 18 months in 45% new French oak) exhibits notes of coffee bean, mocha, white chocolate, black cherries, and currants. Ripe and rich, with abundant tannin, this impeccably made Merlot should age graciously for 10-12 years. Tel. (800) 769-3649; Fax (800) 600-5985

Only 500 cases were produced of this thick, tannic, complex wine from Sonoma County. It’s cellarworthy and hard, dry and astringent now in dense cherry, cassis and mocha flavors that finish with wonderful length and harmony. You can drink it now, but you must adjust for the tannins. Otherwise, cellar until at least 2008. ——S.H.(4/1/2006)—— 92