Aromas : Medium ruby in color showing a bouquet of cherry and black tea accented by subtle sweet vanilla French oak and a fetching blueberry compote note. Taste and flavors : The palate is generous and soft on approach, leading with supple cherry fruit and transitioning to richer boysenberry flavors on the mid palate where the medium-firm tannins, caramel , and notes of clove and black pepper come into play. The vintage’s fresh acidity lends structure to this silky expression of Merlot leaving a lingering, savory finish.