The 2000 Merlot (5,000 cases) is a blend of fruit from Napa (61%) and Sonoma (39%). The dividing line for those two counties transects the Pride Mountain vineyard, hence the confusion about the wines' appellations. This wine offers plenty of sweet black fruits, and an elegant, medium-bodied personality without the grip, depth, and concentration of the 1999 and 1998. To be fair, it had just been bottled when I tasted it. While it is unquestionably an excellent Merlot, it displays the vintage's superficial charm and friendliness, but not much intensity or persistence. Tel. (707) 963-4949; Fax (707) 963-6039

The 2000 Merlot (5,000 cases) is a blend of fruit from Napa (61%) and Sonoma (39%). The dividing line for those two counties transects the Pride Mountain vineyard, hence the confusion about the wines' appellations. This wine offers plenty of sweet black fruits, and an elegant, medium-bodied personality without the grip, depth, and concentration of the 1999 and 1998. To be fair, it had just been bottled when I tasted it. While it is unquestionably an excellent Merlot, it displays the vintage's superficial charm and friendliness, but not much intensity or persistence. Tel. (707) 963-4949; Fax (707) 963-6039

Rich and long in the mouth, with impressively concentrated flavors of blackberries and plums and a delicious note of chocolatey fig. These ripe flavors are fully dry, with the most wonderful velvety tannins. The wine is soft and full of charm. ——S.H.(11/15/2002)—— 92