[91 Wine Advocate] Made from 100% Merlot and checking in at 13.5% natural alcohol, the 2012 Merlot Estate sports an inky purple color to go with terrific notes of black cherries, crme brulee, spice, smoked herbs and licorice. Fabulously pure with medium to full-bodied richness, no hard edges ,and both freshness and richness, it's one of the top Merlots I've tasted from the Santa Cruz Mountains; it will have upwards of 10-15 years of longevity.Winemaker's Notes: Deep purple/ruby color. Ripe blackberry fruit, cola, exotic spice, eucalyptus. Elegant entry; full body, with black currant fruit, dried herbs, firm acid; red fruit and sweet oak in a lingering finish.
