Fresh eucalyptus, pepper and savory spice start this pretty, balanced Merlot. Herbs, lush plum and cherry fruit, and a classy overall character make it a great wine for myriad dishes.——S.K.(6/1/2009)—— 87

Rich, sweet herbal blackberries can be discerned in the nose of the 2001 Merlot. Light to medium-bodied, it displays appealing black fruit flavors in its silky-textured, lush character. Drink it over the next 1-2 years. Porcupine Ridge is an inexpensive line of wines produced by the Boekenhoutskloof winery and its highly talented winemaker Mark Kent. While they do not have the depth, elegance, complexity of the Boekenhoutskloof offerings, they are produced in large quantities and offer considerable value.Importer: Vineyard Brands, Birmingham, AL; tel. (205) 980-8802