Hand-harvested Merlot grapes from Central Valley vineyards, planted on a mixture of alluvial and volcanic based soils, are employed for this juicy, fruit-driven red. After fermentation, about a fifth of the wine is aged in French oak barrels for about six months to build complexity into the palate. Shows intense red fruit aromas, backed by floral notes and a hint of vanilla; the palate is smooth with ripe fruit flavours.