Christopher Cameron Vineyards, Dry Creek Valley (Sonoma County, California) Merlot 2016

 “Merlot” and “Muscle” are two terms that many consumers aren’t inclined to consider in tandem, but this is certainly a wine that conjoins the two.  Deep, dark ruby color shows what’s in store, and the pure aromas of red and black berries and plums are quite enticing.  The palate holds true to the aromatic suggestions, offering excellent flavor impact and sensory depth and length.  Although this is a big wine at a premium price, it is admirably free of extraneous oak, leaving a sense of purity in the long finish.  A truly outstanding Merlot that can hold its own with big-time Cabernets, but in its own distinctive way.  A Double Gold Award winner at the 2019 Toast of the Coast International Wine Competition.