The 1998 Vin de Pays Merlot Tonneaux is a blend of 80% Merlot and 20% Cabernet, aged 80% in new barrels and 20% in tank. Its cherry, blackberry, and spicy oak-scented nose leads to a medium to full-bodied, chewy, thickly textured character. This dense, red and black fruit, as well as chocolate flavored wine, is intense, flavorful, and reveals an appealingly long and supple finish. Projected maturity: now-2004. Importer: A Patrick Lesec Selection, Paris Fax #: 011-33-1-44-70-62-93.