($72; contains 12.5% cabernet franc) Good saturated medium ruby. Very sexy aromas of blackberry, cassis, black truffle, cocoa powder and smoked meat (very Taransaud!). Fat, lush and rich; a compellingly full Washington State merlot with uncanny thickness to its flavor of sweet black raspberry. Finishes with lush, broad tannins and lovely length.

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The 2004 Merlot includes 12% Cabernet Franc in the blend and was sourced from the Champoux and Taptiel Vineyards. The wine was aged for 22 months in 100% new French oak. Purple-colored, it has a splendid perfume of pain grille, spice box, cranberry, red and black currants, and red licorice. This is followed by a lush Merlot that offers layers of sweet fruit, complex flavors, light tannins, and a sense of sophistication. This superb Merlot can be enjoyed now but will add complexity and fill out with another 5-6 years in the cellar. It should provide pleasure through 2024.

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