The 2006 Merlot Jackson Park reveals slightly more concentration, depth, and structure. It should be even better with several more years of bottle age, and last for 10-12 years. Matanzas Creek Winery remains a work in progress as proprietor Jess Jackson moves aggressively to get this estate back to its glory days of the early 1990s.Available through Vin Lux Fine Wines, tel.(866) 462-4641; Fax (866) 853-1707; www.vinluxfinewines.com

Tasted in January, this Merlot was still quite unresolved. Oak dominated, with its characteristic vanilla and caramel notes, while underneath was a substantial core of cherries, blackberries, currants, cocoa and roasted almonds, reminiscent of a granola bar. It’s a distinguished Merlot, but one that wants a few years in the cellar.——S.H.(5/1/2010)—— 91

The finest of this trio is the inky/ruby-hued 2002 Merlot Jackson Park (100% Merlot). A big, sweet nose of espresso roast, dried herbs, currants, cherries, and smoky oak is accompanied by a dense, opulent, medium-bodied, rich, moderately tannic Merlot boasting a long, heady finish. It should be at its best between 2006-2015.(Price not yet determined)Tel. (800) 590-6464; fax (707) 571-0156

Made by Verite’s brilliant Bordelais winemaker, Pierre Seillan, this 2001 Merlot Jackson Park Vineyard (100% Merlot) is a sexy, soft, fully mature wine offering up notes of roasted herbs, coffee beans, sweet mocha and black cherries. This sexy, dark plum/purple-colored effort also reveals hints of chocolate and espresso in its round personality. Enjoy it over the next 4-5 years. Tel. (707) 528-6464; Fax (707) 571-0156