This is a big, ripe, distinctly New World Merlot that shows off its terroir to perfection. A long, sunny growing season has given explosive currant, blackberry jam and mocha flavors, while cool nights have preserved vital acidity and firm tannins. Drink now, with grilled steak topped with a blue cheese and brown butter sauce.——S.H.(5/1/2009)—— 91

. The winery’s above-the-fog vineyard has been kind to Merlot, nearly always producing an interesting wine. The ’05, from such a cool vintage, has given crisp, firm tannins, but long hangtime allowed the grapes to develop luscious blackberry flavors, which smoky oak perfectly accents. A wine of charm and depth; should develop bottle complexity over the next 6 years.——S.H.(4/1/2008)—— 91

From a winery that shows a deft hand at everything it tackles, a concentrated, young Merlot. Distinctive for its rich acids as well as the deep core of blackberry and coffee flavors and firm tannins.——S.H.(10/1/2004)—— 88