The medium-bodied 1999 Merlot Ciel du Cheval has a medium to dark ruby color. It was tasted twice, with vastly different results. The first time it displayed a well-balanced, lively character with cassis, blackberry, black cherry, grilled oak, and tar flavors. It was concentrated, extracted, had dense layers of fruit as well as a long, highly expressive finish. Additionally, it revealed excellent structure for aging. This bottle earned a 90 point score. The second bottle tasted (two months later), with Camarda in Seattle, exhibited aromas of Tallegio, a soft rind, creamy cheese from Italy, as well as a tight, high acid personality with an alcoholic streak in the finish. My inclination, given Camarda's outstanding track record, is that the first bottle was the more representative one. However, in the interest of full-disclosure, I must report on both.Tel. (206) 463-3290.

This is flat-out classy, polished and elegant Merlot, made with fruit from a premier vineyard on Red Mountain. There’s a lush mix of cherries, plums and berries to start, a nice toasty, cocoa frame, fine balance and a firm, confident finish. Despite its youth it’s focused and appealing, but a little time will really open it up. Cellar Selection.——P.G.(6/1/2001)—— 92