SUBST MERLOT STONERIDGE 2018

Cedar, tar, and pipe tobacco fill the nose, giving way to a focused palate that lays out black raspberry and forest floor. In a silky persistence of great complexity, this wine leaves plenty to the imagination for the drinker to discover.

Lots of ripe cherry, mulberry, and currant-like fruits as well as spice, beef broth, and dried herb notes, emerge from the 2018 Merlot Stoneridge Vineyard. Medium to full-bodied on the palate, it has a soft, plush texture, terrific mid-palate depth (which can be lacking in a number of Merlots), sweet tannins, and a great finish. Drink bottles any time over the coming decade.