Tapteil, Merlot, Red Mountain, Yakima Valley 2004

Deep red.

Vinturi - deep, low-toned nose - hazelnut sauce, earth, oak spice and black fruit jam. Pepper too, as it sits.

Round and mouth-filling, with great concentration and "guts", though a bit rustic. Considerable tannin does not kill finishing flavors of chocolate and cherries. Very satisfying action. A couple of enthusiastic folks could easily drain this with several lamb chops. Think Pete Rose flying head-first into 3rd base.


$32. 14.5% listed alcohol.