The 2006 Merlot displays weedy plum and cherry notes intermixed with some fudge, espresso roast, and cocoa. It is medium-bodied and solid, but the tannins are grippy and the wine a little jagged and out of balance. It’s hard to believe this winery has been in operation for 30 years, placing it among the older ones in Napa Valley. I was very impressed with their Cabernet Sauvignons, and less so with their Merlots. www.turnbullwines.com

Ungainly, with stiff, puckery tannins giving a hard astringency, and unintegrated oak sticking out. Somewhere inbetween are modest cherry, anise and herb flavors. Pretty good, but not likely to go anywhere, so drink now.——S.H.(2/1/2010)—— 86