Toad Hollow has long had the ability to sometimes dazzle at a modest prize, as it does with its reserve Merlot from the Russian River Valley’s McDowell Vineyard. The flavors are bright and intense, showing notes of raspberry, blueberry and strawberry, with a dash of sweet oak-vanillin spice. Slightly drying wood tannins are the only off note, so drink this wine young, while the fruit is still dominant.
Toad Hollow, Russian River Valley (Sonoma County) Merlot 2012
By Robert Whitley