87 points Wine Enthusiast: "[$20 list] A lovely Merlot, soft and supple. Shows a fine balance of cherry fruit, herbs and sweet oak, with modest alcohol and dusty tannins. Very nice and elegant. (Dec 2009)"

Producer notes: "Anyone who thinks Merlot is a lightweight has never tried this one. The 2007 is a well-structured wine with the kind of characteristics often ascribed to Cabernet. Those characteristics are the result of the unique qualities of the five vineyards on the valley's southern end that provided the fruit for the 2007. The heavier soils in each of the vineyard sites allowed the fruit to ripen slowly and develop a wide range of flavors. What you will find here is a lush Merlot with aromas of black cherry, plum, blackberry and cassis. In the glass are big flavors of plum, vanilla and dark cherry. On those occassions when you are about to reach for a Cab to serve with a particular dish, try this Merlot. You'll be surprised how good a partner it is."