The dense purple-colored 1998 Merlot Great Estates Buckeye Vineyard is superb. From a vineyard planted at 2,500 feet with very poor soils (yields range between 1.5-2.5 tons of fruit per acre), this formidably-endowed Merlot possesses aromas and flavors of roasted coffee, black fruits, iron, and smoke. Full-bodied, chewy, and muscular, yet accessible, it should drink well for 10-15 years. Tel. (800) 769-3649; Fax (707) 579-3419