Melka – Mekerra 2013 – Knights Valley – Sonoma

The nose is fruity, aromatic, powerful and offers concentration as well as richness. It reveals notes of blackberry, fresh / crunchy cassis and touches of violet, racy minerality associated with small notes of strawberries / fleshy red berries, small notes of chocolate, toasted / caramelized oak as well as a touch of nutmeg, cornflower and a discreet hint of gray pepper. The palate is fruity, well-balanced, silky, a bit tight, racy, a bit aerial and offers a beautiful definition / expression, tension, a slight / discreet juiciness, a small dynamism, a beautiful straightness, a good grain, a beautiful finesse, minerality, a slight acid / juicy frame (in the background) as well as a beautiful suavity / fat. On the palate this wine expresses notes of blackberry, crushed cassis, crushed plum and slight touches of blueberry, strawberry associated with discreet hints of chocolate / tonka bean, caramelization as well as subtle / discreet touches of flowers and a very discreet hint of gray. Tannins are a bit firm and slightly tight. Good length. Beautiful gourmandise on the finish. There are touches of dark chocolate as well as a very discreet hint of espresso on the finish.