An interesting project that focuses on Merlot, the 2017 IGP Principaute d'Orange Terre de Bussiere is 60% Merlot, 20% Syrah and 10% each Cabernet Sauvignon and Grenache. All but the Grenache mature in older barrels, while the Grenache stays in tank prior to blending and bottling. It's a bit leafy, but within acceptable bounds, delivering ripe black cherries and even a hint of cassis. Full-bodied and round in the mouth, it finishes with a flurry of softly dusty tannins and a hint of dark chocolate.