Duckhorn Vineyards – Rector Creek Vineyard Merlot 2012 – Napa Valley

The nose is fruity, powerful, fine and elegant. It reveals notes of cassis and small black berries combined with touches of cranberry, a hint of cherry, spice as well as a slight touch of Ceylon tea and a hint of cigar. The palate is fruity, fine, beautifully harmonious, well defined, relatively gourmand and offers a nice volume, freshness, a racy minerality as well as a nice silky matter. On the palate this wine expresses notes of cassis, cranberry, blackberry jelly and touches of crushed wild strawberry associated with small notes of liquorice, chocolate, black tea as well as discreet notes of cardamom and spices. Tannins are fine and elegant. Good length with slight touches of caramelized oak. The aftertaste is slightly powerful.