Deep cedar, loam and mocha notes frame black cherries and plums on the nose of the 2019 Merlot Three Palms Vineyard. It's full-bodied and moderately rich, with an open-knit texture, ripe tannins and a slightly oaky finish. Approachable now, it should drink well for up to a decade, but I would be hesitant to expect much more.

The 2010 Merlot Three Palms Vineyard exhibits a saturated ruby/plum/purple color in addition to rich, broad, deep flavors of red and black fruits, graphite and spicy oak. Full, rich, structured and restrained, it is an exceptional effort of purity, balance, authority and aging potential. It should hit its stride in two more years, and last for 10-12. The iconic flagship wine that began Duckhorn’s success in 1978 is the Merlot Three Palms Vineyard, one of the first single vineyard Merlots produced, and no doubt an inspiration for the Merlot boom in the 1980s. This has always been one of the benchmark wines for this varietal. Tel. (866) 367-9945

The 2008 Merlot Three Palms Vineyard is a straightforward offering with good balance and plumpness in its fruit, but little in the way of personality or character. Sweet floral notes wrap around the finish. In 2008 the blend is 79% Merlot, 17% Cabernet Sauvignon, 3% Petit Verdot and 1% Cabernet Franc. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2016. These fairly innocuous wines from Duckhorn represent the best of the seven wines I tasted. Tel. (888) 354-8885