The 1997 Merlot Neyers Ranch (from a vineyard in the Conn Valley) exhibits the tell-tale black chocolate and cherry liqueur fruit components typical of a fine Merlot. The color is a dark plum. In the mouth, this full-bodied, fleshy, seductive Merlot provides gobs of glycerin, a lush texture, and copious fruit. With a bit more complexity, it would have merited an outstanding score. On a purely hedonistic level, this wine may score higher with many readers. Drink it now and over the next 7-8 years.Tel. (707) 963-8840; Fax (707) 963-8894