Most of the 1989 red wines from California are uninspiring, often diluted by the heavy rains that fell in the North Coast area. However, the 1989 Merlot reveals excellent fruit, a soft, generous texture, attractive herb, mocha, and berry flavors, and a clean, medium-bodied finish. Drink it over the next 2-3 years. Franciscan continues to turn out high quality wines that offer immediate drinkability, as well as the potential for moderate evolution in the bottle.