(15.3% alcohol; aged for 18 months in 35% new French oak): Good dark red. Musky, slightly wild, almost Syrah-like nose hints at mocha, woodsmoke and pepper. Very smooth and very dry, offering subtle red berry, woodsmoke and pepper flavors. A bit too woodsmoky for my taste but there's no denying the wine's silky middle palate. A serious dusting of tannins currently cuts off the fruit of this savory Merlot, giving the persistent finish a faint dryness.