Generous, ripe and plump, with dark chocolate, dried blueberry, huckleberry and blackberry flavors that are accented by dried herb, violets and a touch of salted caramel on a thick frame, with tannins providing wonderful traction on the finish. Drink now through 2035. 2,243 cases made, 1,560 cases imported.

Mollydooker's 2019 The Scooter Merlot is one of the few Merlots to be found that's almost entirely matured in American oak (93%, with the balance being French). The upfront vanilla is obvious (one-third of the barrels are new, with the balance being second and third use), but it's backed by oodles (a technical term) of black cherries, while hints of plums and mocha also appear. Full-bodied and supple, it's a decadent, creamy wine for drinking over the near term, finishing with soft tannins and a drizzle of maple syrup.