Merryvale has a very good track record with Merlot, and the ’05 is one of their better efforts in recent years. It’s a tannic wine, with quite a bit of astringency, but that lends structure to the black currant flavors, to which new oak adds a touch of smoky cigar box. This fine wine should age well for six years.——S.H.(6/1/2008)—— 91