Xanadu’s winemaker, Conor Lagan, says that this is “a $15 Merlot for $10,”and it’s true. It’s medium-bodied with fine tannins, and a nice eucalyptus note envelopingtight mixed plum fruit. More plum, plus some oak, wraps it up. Mercifully lacks the weediness that many value-priced Merlots sport.——W.E.(10/1/2003)—— 87