Duckhorn’s 2003 Merlot displays a slight oxidative note in the nose, but it is not sufficient enough to be annoying. The wine reveals lots of tea and ripe chocolaty, espresso-like fruit intermixed with mocha and black cherry notes. It is a lush, fleshy effort that appears to be drying out in the finish. This 2003 was probably better a year or two ago. Tel. (888) 354-8885

Here's a wonderfully rich, rewarding Merlot. It's as soft and creamy as melted chocolate mixed with blackcurrant jam and a sprinkle of creme de cassis, with a rich sprinkling of oaky vanilla, but fortunately, it has the acidic backbone needed for structure. This is a sexy wine.——S.H.(2/1/2006)—— 92