($25): If anyone in California can make authentic Merlot, it should be Duckhorn Vineyards who focused on that varietal well before it became a household word.  They make a marvelous one under their Decoy label.  This 2012 is fleshy and ripe, with a lovely slightly bitter cherry note in the finish.  Polished tannins make it delightful to drink now.
90 Michael Apstein Mar 18, 2014