The 1999 Merlot Howell Mountain’s saturated ruby/purple color is followed by a big nose of licorice, creme de cassis, and subtle smoke as well as oak notes. Medium to full-bodied, with a long, textured, concentrated finish, this 1999 balances the vintage’s high tannin with sufficient fruit and extract. It should drink well for 10-12 years. Tel. (707) 963-7108

Well-focused on a center of ripe currant, plum and blackberry, with hints of clayish earth, lead pencil, mocha and anise folded in, giving it added flavor dimension and a long, detailed aftertaste that's a cut above most Merlots. Ample tannins for cellaring; to drink now, decant. Drink now through 2009. 1,810 cases made.??–JL??Region: California / Napa / Howell Mountain Select to Add

The least accessible of Duckhorn’s Merlot lineup is shut down now by strong, astringent tannins and firm acids. Letting it breathe reveals a fabulous core of ripe cherry and raspberry fruit that is so intense, it’s like Framboise. Utterly good, almost gooey in sheer flavor. Will age for a very long time, and best to decant many hours in advance. ——S.H.(8/1/2004)—— 93