A bit of an alcohol bomb at 14.5 percent abv, Kimmel’s Mendocino wine is pretty brassy for a humble Merlot. As you sample it, it speaks of juxtapositions and paradoxes: A buzzy rush of booze is balanced by fresh raspberry and blueberry notes. Cedar wood is offset by a distinct note of cloves and a chocolate tinge. The finish is clean but short and bends a limb back toward the fruit. Quite tasty, and a reminder of how good Merlot can be.
Rated previously (same rating) earlier this year here.
A- / $38 / kimmelvineyards.com