Merlot, CS and CF blend. Deep garnet colour. Earthy, meaty fruit with a core of stewed plums and a waft of capsicum. Medium to full body, medium to high acid. Good concentration of fruit with medium+ level of slightly astringent tannins. Long finish. Tasted July 2009.Imported in Japan by Nakagawa Wine Co., Ltd.

Minty, with wintergreen and blackberry flavors that lead to a dry, peppery finish. The astringency needs grilled meat to balance it out. ——S.H.(12/1/2008)—— 85

The 2004 Merlot Crimson Creek is a foursquare, medium dark ruby-hued effort displaying aromas of cherries, spice, and a hint of white chocolate. Straightforward and simple with decent acidity, but little length or depth, it should be consumed over the next several years. Tel. (800) 575-9777; Fax (707) 253-1493