The Merlot reveals abundant quantities of chocolate, mocha, sweet toast, and straightforward black cherry fruit notes. The 2000 exhibits sweet fruit, but not the structure of the 1999. It is best consumed during its first 5-7 years of life.Tel. (800) 355-8008; fax (800) 600-5895

This great example of varietal correctness shows aromas of black cherries, mocha and herbs, followed by earthier flavors of tobacco and black cherries. It’s the kind of Merlot you wish you saw on more restaurant lists—easy to recognize and easy to like.——W.E.(9/1/2003)—— 87