An interesting Merlot from a very hot year, a wine that currently takes its barrel ageing very seriously. The aromas are of smoked and baked raspberries, while the palate follows in the same vein, adding spice to those smoked-raspberries. There's a decent amount of acidity holding this one together, but it needs a little time to mellow, say 2 years or so, but the question remains, will it integrate all that judiciously used smoky-wood into the fruit or will it become disjointed over time ? This is definitely one that will be fun to watch. Price: $26.95 - Rating: *** 1/2+