I am a long-time admirer of Joel Petersen's style of winemaking. And why not? Along with Paul Draper at Ridge Vineyards, Petersen has made Zinfandel into a world class wine of extraordinary flavor dimension and depth. He also produces a proprietary red wine, a Merlot/Cabernet Franc/Cabernet Sauvignon blend that reveals formidable potential. In addition, Ravenswood's Merlots are at least very good, occasionally outstanding. These three futures offerings all look terrific (I can't wait to get a crack at Ravenswood's 1990 and 1991 Zinfandels). The 1990 Merlot may prove to be outstanding. The nose is already revealing relatively evolved aromas of tobacco, coffee, mocha, and spices. In the mouth, it is round, seductive, and exotic, with just enough backbone to provide focus and grip. This tasty, lusciously rich, smooth-textured Merlot should drink well for at least a decade.

I am a long-time admirer of Joel Petersen's style of winemaking. And why not? Along with Paul Draper at Ridge Vineyards, Petersen has made Zinfandel into a world class wine of extraordinary flavor dimension and depth. He also produces a proprietary red wine, a Merlot/Cabernet Franc/Cabernet Sauvignon blend that reveals formidable potential. In addition, Ravenswood's Merlots are at least very good, occasionally outstanding.These three futures offerings all look terrific (I can't wait to get a crack at Ravenswood's 1990 and 1991 Zinfandels). The 1990 Merlot may prove to be outstanding. The nose is already revealing relatively evolved aromas of tobacco, coffee, mocha, and spices. In the mouth, it is round, seductive, and exotic, with just enough backbone to provide focus and grip. This tasty, lusciously rich, smooth-textured Merlot should drink well for at least a decade.