Lots of blackberry and coffee fruit in this dry wine. It’s not terribly complex, and in fact is a little raw, but decanting will help, and the acids will balance well against the richness of steak. ——S.H.(3/1/2007)—— 85

This round and supple Merlot is ripe in juicy blackberry and coffee flavors, framed in chewy, soft tannins. It’s totally dry, and shows lots of class for the price. ——S.H.(11/15/2005)—— 85

A young wine, from the dark, blue-black color to the immature aromas of blackberry jam and oak. In the mouth, the tannins strike hard and fast, followed up by acidity. But there’s a solid core of blackberry fruit. This wine demands cellaring. Try after 2004. —S.H. ——S.H.(2/1/2003)—— 86

——S.H.(9/1/2002)—— 86