Far plusher and more interesting is the 2007 Merlot, which exhibits the same chocolatey berry fruit intermixed with cocoa, earth, and spice, but the tannins are sweeter and everything seems much better integrated and plush. It should drink nicely for 7-8 years. It’s hard to believe this winery has been in operation for 30 years, placing it among the older ones in Napa Valley. I was very impressed with their Cabernet Sauvignons, and less so with their Merlots. www.turnbullwines.com

The 2006 Merlot displays weedy plum and cherry notes intermixed with some fudge, espresso roast, and cocoa. It is medium-bodied and solid, but the tannins are grippy and the wine a little jagged and out of balance. It’s hard to believe this winery has been in operation for 30 years, placing it among the older ones in Napa Valley. I was very impressed with their Cabernet Sauvignons, and less so with their Merlots. www.turnbullwines.com

Ungainly, with stiff, puckery tannins giving a hard astringency, and unintegrated oak sticking out. Somewhere inbetween are modest cherry, anise and herb flavors. Pretty good, but not likely to go anywhere, so drink now.——S.H.(2/1/2010)—— 86