I continue to be shocked by encounters with top-flight Merlot from Australia (it doesn’t happen that often). Craneford’s 2004 Merlot, a knock-out effort from the Barossa that spent 16 months in French oak, exhibits a dark ruby/purple color in addition to rich aromas of berry fruit, roasted coffee, chocolate, and subtle herbs. This fleshy, voluptuously-textured, hedonistic Merlot will provide immense pleasure over the next 5-6 years. Importer: Ken Onish & John Gorman, Southern Starz, Huntington Beach, CA; tel. (714) 892-3030