I loved the 2016 Merlot Bancroft Ranch, which ranks with the finest expressions of Merlot out there. Brought up in 50% new barrels, it reminds me of a top Pomerol with its ripe black cherry, chocolate, tobacco, and graphite aromas and flavors. With full-bodied richness, good acidity, and outstanding balance, drink it any time over the coming 10-15 years.

This bursts across the palate with intense red berry and cherry flavors that are burnished and well-structured. The savory finish is long, rich and filled with Asian spice and cocoa powder accents. Drink now through 2024. 867 cases made. — KM

Made of 100% Merlot aged in 50% new French oak for 20 months, the 2016 Merlot Bancroft Ranch is medium to deep garnet-purple colored and sings of warm black and red plums, black cherry compote and molten chocolate with touches of baking spices and underbrush. Full-bodied, concentrated and decadent, it has a soft texture and bags of juicy fruit, finishing spicy. 867 cases produced, to be released in February 2019.- LPB

Beringer's 2016 Merlot Bancroft Ranch is super distinctive. Then again, these white tufa soils on Howell Mountain are special. Black cherry, crushed rocks, menthol, licorice and savory herbs abound in a potent, structured Merlot endowed with terrific underlying tension and power. The Bancroft Merlot is one of the hidden gems in this range. -- Antonio Galloni

Sanguine with fruity flavors of currant and cassis, this is a hearty, full-bodied and substantially ripe red, lush on the palate with a succulent texture. It has aspects of forest sage, dusty rock, cocoa powder that highlight mountain tannin structure and bold oak. VIRGINIE BOONE