This is three fifths Merlot, with the other four Bordeaux grapes filling out the rest. 100% French oak was used, half new, and the near-15% alcohol shows in a bit of burn in the finish. Toasty, smoky, laden with roasted coffee and bitter chocolate notes, this is a wine to pair with a grilled steak. ——P.G.(12/1/2010)—— 89