The 1995 Alluvium Proprietary Red reveals a dark ruby color, an elegant, berry, earth, and cherry-scented nose, medium to full body, and admirable complexity and accessibility. Last year I thought the wine was outstanding. While I rated it slightly lower this year, it is nevertheless an excellent offering. I would opt for drinking it over the next 7-10 years.Beringer's Alluvium Proprietary Red is a Merlot-dominated wine, with quantities of Cabernet Sauvignon and dollops of Cabernet Franc, Petite Verdot, and, occasionally, Malbec. The 1995, 1996 and 1997 vintages all include a minimum of 75% Merlot, with 10%-20% Cabernet Sauvignon. These wines are made in a claret style, with less power and extraction, but more finesse and accessibility. They appear to contain enough tannin for 10-12 years of aging potential.Tel. (707) 963-7115; Fax (707) 963-1735