94 points. The Merlot is once again a blend of Estate Merlot and Estate Cabernet Sauvignon. The resulting wine is a big, world-class red wine capable of improving with bottle aging for 10 to 15 years. Complex aromas of black berry fruits, black stone fruits, chocolate, tobacco, spice and floral notes with a mineral overtone. On the palate the wine has a big silky mouth feel, well balanced, with flavors of berries, fruit, cocoa, cassis, and spice, and a long spicy finish.

It is fermented in French oak—33% new—for 18 months before being bottled in the spring, then bottle-aged for an additional 30 months before release.

14.8% ABV