Country: US / California
Variety: Merlot
Winery: Beringer / Bancroft Ranch Vineyard
The vineyard is on Howell Mountain. It’s an awkward wine, with lots to like, but some problems. On the plus side is enormous cassis, cherry and chocolate fruit flavor and rich, fine tannins, and the 100% new oak seems proper given the wine’s volume. But there’s too much sugary sweetness in the finish, almost like a dessert wine.