Slightly sweet, but with varietally correct flavors, this soft and supple wine again proves that a simple and inexpensive wine does not have to lack character. Cherry, cocoa and cola flavors, and a supple, plummy texture ensure that it actually tastes like a Merlot. The front-end sweetness yields to a slightly tart finish, but it’s clean all the way.——W.E.(9/1/2000)—— 83