St. Supery, Rutherford (Napa Valley, California) Merlot 2009

 This exceptional Merlot shows a softness appropriate to the grape variety but also a level of concentration and flavor impact that is remarkable and very impressive.  There’s no question that this was achieved by means of yield levels rather than aggressive extraction, as there’s an endearing, almost uncanny delicacy to the wine despite its powerful, persistent flavors.  Restrained wood influence and very fine-grained tannin contribute to a textural delicacy that rounds out this overall impression. Platinum award winner at the San Diego International Wine Competition.