The 2002 Merlot Sable Mountain Estate is from a 2,000 foot altitude vineyard in cool Mendocino. Dense purple-colored, with sweet blue and black fruits intermixed with a touch of licorice as well as toast, this medium-bodied, fruit-driven Merlot reveals surprising length in addition to a deep mid-palate. It should drink well young, yet keep for a decade. (Release date Winter 04)Tel. (800) 769-3649; Fax (800) 600-5895

86–88 Tannic; chocolate and plum aromas and flavors, and high-toned red fruit.——W.E.(3/1/2004)—— 87