California Grapevine November 2016 Reviews

California Grapevine

The November issue of the California Grapevine saw the 2013 Estate Merlot score 90 points.

• 2013 Estate Merlot, 90 Points – Medium-dark purplish ruby; attractive, spicy, black cherry fruit aroma with herbal notes and hints of espresso, tobacco leaf, black olive, and graphite; full body; rich, textured, cedary, youthful, firmly structured, currant and dark cherry fruit flavors with hints of baking spices and overtones of American oak; full tannin; lingering aftertaste. Currently a bit tight and could use a few more years of bottle aging. Very highly recommended. 13.8% alcohol; 1,250 cases; 100% Merlot; released April 2016. (Group Score: 16.1, 0/3/0; My Score: 17 [90/100], second place)