Generally, at Stone Tower we see our Merlot as an integral part of our right bank Bordeaux style blend, Windswept Hill.  This the second single varietal Merlot we have created in our history.  The wine is crafted from 100% Estate fruit and is a little over 90% Merlot, a touch of Petit Verdot and Cabernet Sauvignon. The wine is rich and full and the more than 15 months in oak create a lavish feeling from the nose through the long and complex finish.  The wine is confident and has beautiful aromas of cedar tobacco and dark fruits. On the palate it has incredible grace and balance with blackberry and a hint of chocolate. This should be enjoyed with grilled and roasted meats as well as pasta and wild game.  In the French wine world, they say vin de garde” (wine for laying down) when the wine is age worthy – although very enjoyable now this wine will deepen and soften over the next seven to ten years. Drink now through 2030.