This is a Merlot that can stand up with Cabernets any day, loaded with great flavors and depth it is a real treat. The aromas are perfect, blueberry and black cherry with hints of dried tea showing through perfectly. The flavors add a new level to what you just smelled; black cherries still come through, but are mixed with jam like cassis, and slight hints of vanilla and cocoa. The finish does a great job of wrapping the whole experience into one big lingering treat. This wine has a small amount of Cabernet and Syrah blended into it to give it more depth and added fun flavors.

We enjoyed a bottle of this wine with lamb lollipops, the single Frenched bone in chops that cook so quickly and are easily devoured. We like to sprinkle ours with salt and pepper and rub olive oil and rosemary on them. The flavors of the rosemary and slight gaminess of the lamb pulled all the flavors of the wine together to make a truly memorable experience.

This winery has been family owned for over 100 years. They have made some great commitments to quality all the while keeping the price affordable. The winemaker has the power to declassify any wine, what this means is that if he does not think a barrel of the reserve wine is up to snuff he will declassify it the nest level, allowing for some truly exceptional juice in every bottle. This is one of the best Merlots in this price range.