2012 Ridge Vineyards "Estate" Santa Cruz Mountains Merlot

The 2012 Merlot Estate is an absolute joy to taste. Dark and sumptuous to the core, the 2012 boasts superb richness to match its open-knit, welcoming personality. Plum, black cherry, mocha, sweet herbs, cloves and violets are some of the notes that are laced into the voluptuous, racy finish. Expressive savory undertones are a reminder this is a mountain wine, but the raciness is pure 2012. (AG)