The well-known Mia Klein is the proprietress of this estate, and her 2007 Merlot Frediani Vineyard is a winner. It boasts a dense ruby/purple color as well as attractive plum, licorice, and subtle smoke characteristics offered in a fleshy, medium to full-bodied, supple, seductive style. Already delicious, it should continue to evolve for another 7-8 years. Mia Klein’s proprietary blends, dedicated to her mother, are all blends of Bordeaux varietals.Tel. (707) 258-8119; Fax (707) 258-8132

A delicious, complex Merlot, although all the parts haven’t come together and it needs time in the cellar. It’s extraordinarily rich in oak-inspired black cherries, red currants, violets, cocoa, spices and sweet sandalwood, and it should develop nuance and bottle bouquet after 2012. ——S.H.(3/1/2010)—— 91