I tasted three vintages of Merlot (the 1995, 1996 and 1997). They were more similar than different. The 1995 Merlot is neither as fat or ripe as the 1997, nor as structured as the 1996. It exhibits a saturated dark ruby color, followed by a soft, friendly personality with copious quantities of chocolate, licorice, and smoky, berry fruit intermixed with tobacco and dried herbs. Lush, full-bodied, and chewy, this wine should drink well for another decade. Tel. (707) 963-2745; Fax (707) 963-4831