The two Merlots are competent, if uninspiring. The 2006 Merlot reveals some austerity as well as attractive plum and black cherry notes intermixed with hints of herbs and spices. I rarely see these wines, but they have been around since the mid-nineties. Barlow’s 50 acres are situated between the towns of Calistoga and St. Helena, and fewer than 2,000 cases are produced each year.Tel. (707) 942-8742