Here’s a 2007 wine that had extended barrel age (22 months) in a mixture of equal parts American and French oak – showing that 2007 wines could take their time in wood and still come out rich and fruity as well as showing barrel characteristics. The nose of this Merlot is full of raspberry, vanilla and violets – the palate is also loaded with sweet and juicy fruit namely blackberries, there’s also a touch of vanilla and spice from the oak with good tannins structure on the finish. This one can easily age a decade. Price: $35.00 – Rating: ****½