A blast of fruit, glycerin, smoky oak, is the 1997 Merlot. A 100% Merlot cuvee offering up notes of espresso, coffee, chocolate, and black cherry liqueur in a full-bodied, unctuously textured, lavishly fat, nearly over-the top style. Its low acidity and sweet tannin suggest it will provide the most pleasure during its first 5-8 years of life. Imported by The Australian Premium Wine Collection, John Larchet, USA Wine West, LLC, San Rafael, CA; phone: (800)-485-5753 and Chicago Brands, Chicago, IL; tel. (312) 466-9300.