Dark ruby at the core, the 2018 Merlot contains splashes of Cabernet Franc and Malbec. Aromas of spiced plum, dark cherry skin and black raspberry sway with elements of juicy tobacco, river rocks and soft baking spices. Medium to full-bodied, the wine displays just-ripe fruit elements with buttressing tannins that lift the mouthfeel and complexity. Concluding with a delightful, lingering finish, the dark, red-fruited essences remain on the palate with persistence. The wine rested in French oak, almost 60% new. Give it a try; it's delicious. 13,620 bottles produced.

With the addition of 12% Cabernet Franc and 12% Malbec, the 2017 Merlot opens to a proper frame of aromas with dusty plum and black cherry, with hints of black tea and dried sage in the glass. Medium to full-bodied, the wine offers a delightful expression of Merlot with a mineral tension that gives way to lifting tannins. Food-friendly in its youth, the wine ends with a lingering finish. Just under 12,000 bottles were produced.

Mostly Merlot with 14% Cabernet Franc and 8% Malbec added in, the 2016 Merlot starts with a core of soft red fruit—red plum and red cherries—giving way to florals and a soft liveliness. The medium-bodied palate is clean and correct, but the fruit turns more tart on the palate and finish. The wine has a smooth and watery cinnamon-spiced note on the soft, lingering finish. 1,146 cases produced.

The 2015 Merlot is ripe, dark-fruited and generous, cutting a broad swathe across the palate. Full-bodied and open-knit, it's an uncomplicated effort adapted to near-term consumption.

The 2014 Estate Merlot is a rich, concentrated beauty that gives up lots of ripe black fruits and chocolaty notes in its full-bodied, rounded, sexy style. Mouth-filling and nicely balanced, it’s a classic 2014 to drink over the coming 7-8 years. The blend is 77% Merlot, 16% Cabernet Franc and 7% Malbec.