St. Francis, Merlot, Sonoma County

Nicely mellowed, easy drink, but slightly cloying and fruity

At the end of it's drinkability life, still good

I often find Merlot from Napa and Sonoma more interesting than Cabernet, but not this one. Although flavorful (cassis, but not as pronounced as in Canernet, oak and a little bit of black cherry) and powerful, oak is too strong and over-power fruits, and aftertaste has too much of bitter wood. Tannins are strong, even excessive, which I did not expect in 6 years old wine. I think it is overall good, just fell short of expectations.

I liked this a lot. Berries on the nose, nice smooth and full bodied with a nice finish. About perfect age for this one.

cocoa mixed with spice infused berry fruit. lacking in concentration, but not bad at all.