Wine Reviews

An opaque red/black color, the 2021 Merlot Sonoma Valley Reserve leads with notes of dark earth, black plum, cocoa, and espresso. Full-bodied, it coats the palate and retains a delicate freshness on the finish, with hints of red apple and plush tannins.

Handsomely structured, with refined red currant, mocha and tomato leaf accents that build richness toward polished tannins.

Expressions of bramble and forest fruits, English tea and tobacco. Fresh acidity with complex spice and liquorice. Solid, yet charming.

This very dark ruby colored “Reserve” level Merlot from St. Francis is very impressive! It opens with a faint red currant bouquet with hints of black cherry, beet, and black plum. On the palate, this wine is medium bodied with nicely integrated medium acidity. The mouthfeel is very nicely balanced and creamy with no edges. It also nicely coats your mouth. The flavor profile is juicy black cherry and mocha blend with notes of cinnamon stick. We also detected hints of oak, blueberry, and a touch of orange zest. The finish is dry and its integrated refined moderate tannins drift away nicely. The Tasting Panel would pair this Merlot with a filet mignon or with a pot roast. Enjoy

This appealing red merges structure and polish, with expressive cherry and red currant flavors laced with toasty mocha, savory dill and spice notes. Finishes with medium-grained tannins.