Nose: Light intensity of black cherry with very vague hints of vanilla and mint.
Palate: The wine is dry, light(+) body with medium(+) fine grained tannins and a medium level of mouth-watering acidity. No indication of alcohol burn (13.8%ABV). The flavors are light intensity of cherry (very slight).
Finish/Length: The finish is clean and the length is short displaying only a very fleeting hint of cherry that is almost green(unripe) in character.
Conclusion: This wine seems to be in balance, considering that all the components are light/thin in character and there is no indication of an alcohol burn. There is little complexity. I anticipated the Napa Valley fruit would offer more ripeness in the fruit flavors but maybe the grapes were picked early or were not able to ripen. This wine is ready to drink now and over the next 6 months because I do not believe the components have enough substance to for aging. The retail price is US$12.99 which, I think, place it at the high end of the price to value level.
Producer Notes: Our 2009 Merlot shows its depth with rich garnet color. Aromas of juicy boysenberries and cherry pie fill the glass. Creme brulee and brown sugar notes from oak aging complement the ripe berry aromas. Mountain fruit characteristics show in the intensity of the fruit flavors. The entry enjoys sweet berry notes of raspberry and cherry with a finish of jammy boysenberry preserves. The oak notes of chocolate and wood smoke pair with and complement the rich fruit layers. Refined tannins support this balanced wine that doesn't show the typical alcohol component found in many Merlots. As the wine develops in the glass, one may enjoy ongoing berry notes, a touch of allspice evolving in the middle, while the wine continues to lengthen on the finish. Smooth, silky and profound berry flavors confirm this wine's birthplace as Napa Valley.
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