When asked about comparing the 1994 1995 and 1996 Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon vintages Dick Arrowood felt that 1994 produced the richest most opulent wines with the roundest tannin. He went on to say that 1995 was slightly more forward with attractive aromatics but the wines possessed more jagged edges and aggressive tannin yet impressive extract in addition to a firmer character. As for the 1996s Arrowood did not feel they were as fleshy and round as the 1994s but they were relatively supple and usually possessed excellent aromatics and density. In essence they are firmer but not as tough as some 1995s. As the following tasting notes attest all of the reds from Arrowood were exceptionally successful.