1999 Paloma Merlot

Opaque cherry red. Cherries and blueberries on the nose. Plush but still well defined on the palate, cherries, plums, bit of tobacco, anise. Fine tannins, nice acidity and balance. A slight hard edge on the mid-palate softens beautifully with a bit of air. Some warm spice as it crosses the palate. Finishes long with plums and black pepper. Becomes more red-fruited with air. Has held up remarkably and should still drink well for a couple of years, but I wouldn't wait. "A-"

Charlie