Abeja Merlot 2016

The 2016 Merlot is beautiful and also up with the top Merlots in the vintage. Terrific red currants, blackberries, spice box, and cedary herb notes all flow to a plump, medium to full-bodied Merlot that hits the palate with loads of fruit, a stacked mid-palate, and a great finish.

High-register aromas of baking spices, dried herbs, dried leaf and toast lead to deft, plump dark fruit flavors with ample barrel notes to go along with them. It shows a sense of refinement and elegance that heightens the appeal. There's plenty of richness as well, with fruit and barrel playing equal parts.