Rated 91 by James Suckling A big, juicy merlot with chocolate and plum character, as well as hazelnuts. Full body. Flavorful finish. For those who like a richer style. Drink now. .

Energetic and focused, with lively blackberry, crushed stone and espresso flavors that build toward broad-shouldered tannins. Best after 2020. 4,800 cases made.

Full ruby-red. Aromas of dark berries, licorice, chocolate and herbs suggest quick-ripening fruit. Supple but a bit soft and warm too, with black cherry and dark berry flavors in need of a bit more relief and lift. Finishes with fine-grained, inoffensive tannins and lingering notes of menthol and sour cherry, turning a bit dusty and dry with air, with the herbal element returning. (14.5% alcohol)

Exhibiting aromas of black cherry, sweet currant fruit and spice, the 2015 Merlot Canoe Ridge Estate Vineyard is medium-bodied and nicely balanced but somewhat innocuous and fleeting. With no hard edges and a juicy core of fruit, it's adapted to near-term consumption.