Frank Family Vineyards, Napa Valley (California) Merlot 2018

 This producer is known (by me, at least) for making big, powerful wines, and there’s nothing wrong with that.  Be that as it may, this wine is a model of balance and polish — but it isn’t so polished that it comes off as being overly domesticated.  Deep flavors of dark berries and plums are entirely alluring, and a judicious edge of oak lends definition.  Wicked good Merlot.  A Platinum Award winner at the 2021 Critics Challenge International Wine and Spirits Competition.