Dry and tough in tannins, this Merlot is relieved with some good cherry, blackberry, cocoa, tobacco and oak flavors. The astringency doesn’t seem likely to age out.——S.H.(4/1/2010)—— 85

Wraps minty, pepper-infused cherry flavors into a very soft texture, giving a wine of considerable lushness and attraction. Right on the edge of the Merlot revolution going on in the warmer parts of Santa Ynez Valley, and a wine to watch.——S.H.(10/1/2008)—— 87

This winery’s reserve Merlot is richer than the regular release, and from a better vintage. It’s marked by blackberry flavors edged with earth, notable oak and dry, distinguished tannins. It’s a young wine, a little rough now. The winemaker suggests aging for 10 years, which may be pushing it. ——S.H.(11/15/2002)—— 88