No one has ever been able to explain to me why the Hillebrand Artist Series reds are in a clear bottle - and in truth I don't much care as long as they keep putting wines like this into them. A blend of 50% Merlot and 40% Cabernet Franc with just a spoonful of Cabernet Sauvignon (10%) for seasoning - the wine has sweet raspberry aromas with hints of chocolate and vanilla undertones; flavours are sweet fruited with berries and spice held together by a nice tannin structure - well -priced and ready to drink over the next 5 years. Price: $18.75 - Rating: ****+