Newton’s 2002 Merlot Unfiltered has always been one of the reference points for Napa Valley high quality Merlot. Su Hua Newton was one of the first to recognize the skills of the famed, globe trotting oenologist, Michel Rolland, who began working here in the early 1990s. This is a structured, long-term style of Merlot that can easily last another two decades. An opaque ruby/purple color is followed by notes of mocha, underbrush, forest floor, unsmoked tobacco and white chocolate. Black cherry and currant fruit characteristics quickly emerge once the wine hits the palate. Medium to full-bodied with moderate tannin, this 2002 can be drunk now because of its lavish fruit intensity, but it will be even better with another 5-6 years of cellaring. It should last for 6-10 years. Tel. (707) 963-9000; Fax (707) 963-5408

The 2002 Merlot Unfiltered is made in a St.-Emilion-like style with leafy tobacco and herbal undertones intermixed with sweet currant, cherry, and dusty, loamy soil notes. The wine is medium-bodied, elegant, and ideal for drinking over the next 7-8 years. (Release date Winter 2005)Tel. (707) 963-9000; Fax (707) 963-5408

I wish there were more fruity concentration here, because the individual parts are quite good. There’s beautifully ripe, sweet tannins, fine acidity, polished smoky oak, and pretty cherry, plum and violet flavors that could use a boost in the middle palate through the finish.——S.H.(7/1/2007)—— 86