Ratcheting up the level of concentration, complexity, and persistence in the mouth is the 2002 Merlot Vintner’s Select (400 cases). An opulent, heady wine that reveals gorgeously melted toffee notes intermixed with blackberry and cherry liqueur, a hint of smoke, underbrush, and fabulous power and richness, this is extraordinarily pure, dense wine that is about as good as Merlot can be in California. Drink it over the next decade. Readers who love the Bob Foley style of wines, and there seem to be many who do, should also know that he produces wines under his own name, and is also the winemaker for Switchback Ridge and Hourglass, two other up-and-coming estates. Tel. (707) 963-4949; Fax (707) 963-8364