An exemplary California Merlot, with soft, supple tannins but full, rich flavors—an enticing combination. The wine tastes of dark cherry and plum fruit, and is neither overtly sweet nor fat and heavy on the palate. Secondary notes resembling dark cocoa and vanilla add to its appeal. While the wine likely will become more complex with a few years of cellaring, it is so soft and inviting right now that waiting to enjoy it will be quite difficult.
Kenwood, Sonoma Valley (Sonoma County, California) Merlot 2009
By Paul Lukacs