From Murray Darling, an area that straddles northern Victoria and New South Wales, this Merlot is an easy quaffer with bouncy plum fruit, earth and just the right amount of oak. Just one of many great McPherson’s buys; their Shiraz and Chardonnay (both 87 points, $7) are also worthwhile.——D.T.(11/15/2003)—— 85

It’s black cherries all the way in this clean, dry wine. The fruit is ripe and polished, wrapped in chewy tannins, and set off by crisp acidity. Little evident oak, but the pretty flavors really don’t need any. ——S.H.(6/1/2002)—— 84