The 2004 Merlot Pesano was aged five months in small barrels prior to being released. Cotarella is a wizard when it comes to Merlot. This deep ruby/purple-hued effort reveals scents of roasted coffee beans, blackberries, spice box, and a hint of white chocolate. Dense, soft, and everything a Merlot should be, it tastes like a Merlot priced 2-3 times higher. Enjoy it over the next several years.