We finished the tasting with the two Bordeaux blends. About as sexy and voluptuous as they come in the vintage, the 2011 Merlot Northridge Vineyard gives up loads of plum, violets, cassis, graphite and hints of spring flowers to go with a full-bodied, hedonistically styled profile on the palate. Possessing no hard edges, yet solid concentration and sweet tannin, it will put a smile on anyone’s face over the coming 7-82years. - Jeb Dunnuck

Supple and expressive, layering cherry and spice flavors with blankets of mint and green herbs, coming together smoothly on the generous finish. The tannic backbone is well-integrated. Best from 2016 through 2021. 430 cases made. –HS