2009 年份的 Merlot Vintner’s Reserve 酒體極為豐滿，果味濃郁，易于入口。此酒豐富的風(fēng)味中帶有成熟紅色漿果、花朵、甘草和香料的香氣。余味略微復(fù)雜，帶有微妙的花香和泥土氣息。預(yù)期成熟時間：2012 年至 2014 年。

The 2008 Vintner’s Reserve Merlot (98% Merlot and the rest Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc aged 14 months in two-thirds French and one-third American oak) exhibits a dark plum color along with notes of cherry cola, raspberry, garrigue, loamy soil and spice box. This medium-bodied, juicy Merlot is somewhat monolithic, but it displays an appropriate varietal character. Drink it over the next 2-3 years. Kendall-Jackson enjoys a well-deserved reputation for over-delivering quality vis a vis price for its wines.Tel. (800) 769-3649; www.kj.com

A fine, complex Merlot, appealing for its array of cherry, smoked meat, balsam, soy and pepper flavors. Shows lots of class and finesse for the price. Easy to find, with production of more than 50,000 cases.——S.H.(5/1/2011)—— 90

Another clear upgrade in quality is the 2007 Vintner’s Reserve Merlot. This is even stronger than the 2006, which was an upgrade over earlier efforts. Elegant mocha and berry fruit intermixed with some herbs, coffee, and spice make for a delicious, round wine that is actually a blend of 95% Merlot and 5% Cabernet Sauvignon, all from Sonoma. Drink it over the next 2-4 years. The lowest level of the Kendall-Jackson empire, the Vintner’s Reserve series, goes from strength to strength. For consumers hoping to maximize their dollar value, these serious wines are consistent choices. Their Chardonnay has always been good, but dramatic increases in quality have taken place in the Pinot Noir, Merlot, and Cabernet Sauvignon programs.Tel. (800) 769-3649; kjwines@kj.com

A sound, clean, dry Merlot from various parts of Sonoma County. Elegant and classy, with firm tannins framing rich flavors of red and black cherries, red currants, tobacco, cola and sweet, smoky sandalwood. Quite impressive at this price.——S.H.(5/1/2010)—— 88