Ripe black plum and berry dominate the nose and mouth on this Merlot, with appropriate accents of coffee granules and black pepper to spice things up. Lightweight but round with a medium-length finish.——L.B.(5/1/2010)—— 85

Despite hailing from warm Languedoc-Roussillon, this wine shows much of the earthy restraint of the Rhone, home base of Delas Freres. Barnyard notes mix with cedar aromas and muted red fruits on the nose while concentrated raspberry and ash notes infuse the palate. Grippy but polished tannins provide a frame for the plum-flavored finish.——W.E.(3/1/2009)—— 84

Starts off with a strong burnt matchstick aroma that gradually yields to tart black cherry fruit on the palate. A bit light in body, finishing with a dry astringency.——J.C.(12/1/2004)—— 82

Ripe and filled out, with some herbal, earthy aromas that contribute character. Raspberry fruit on a fresh frame, and a light chocolate-laced finish is what you get from this solid, lean performer. Would be good with steak frites and a green salad. ——M.S.(9/1/2003)—— 85