Tastes a bit sweet and jammy in sour cherry candy flavors, with high acidity giving it some sting. Doesn’t seem likely to improve, so drink now. ——S.H.(12/1/2009)—— 84

This is a true reserve, richer and more complex than Bargetto’s regular Merlot. Shows dense flavors of black raspberries, currants, cherries, chocolate and vanilla, wrapped into firm but accessible tannins, and finishes thoroughly dry and spicy. Best now and for a year or two.——S.H.(5/1/2008)—— 90

A disagreeable wine. ThereOs a medicinal quality in the aroma that suggests plastic bandages, and the flavors are thin, sharp and acidic. ItOs impossible to separate your impression of the wine from the price. ItOs a rip off.——S.H.(9/12/2002)—— 81