Lots to like, especially at this price. There are nice, ripe flavors of plums, blackberries and coffee, and the wine is dry and crisp. The tannins are a bit rugged, and there’s a rustically earthy mouthfeel, but this wine is a good value in a full-bodied, everyday red.——S.H.(12/1/2003)—— 85

Simply delicious, in that fleshy, supple way Merlot was meant to be ripe, mellow and soft. A delightful aroma of berries and smoke leads to mingled flavors of blackberries, chocolate and clove. There’s a delicacy of body that complements the upfront flavors of this value wine. Best Buy. —S.H.——S.H.(5/1/2002)—— 89