(80% cabernet sauvignon, 30% petit verdot, 6% malbec and 1% cabernet franc): Saturated deep ruby. Crushed blackberry, cassis, bitter chocolate, licorice and a distinctly rocky minerality on the nose, all lifted by a violet topnote. Pliant, supple and nicely concentrated, with a lightly glyceral character to the black fruit and licorice flavors. This dense blend finishes with youthfully firm tannins and noteworthy persistence. I'd give it another couple years in the bottle to develop more nuance.

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The flagship red wine, the 2008 Profile, is a blend of 80% Cabernet Sauvignon, 13% Petit Verdot, 6% Malbec and 1% Cabernet Franc. Dusty, loamy soil aromas intermixed with graphite, blueberry, blackberry, charcoal and camphor jump from the glass of this complex, inky/purple-colored offering. Full-bodied and backward with undeniable potential, this young red classic Napa blend of Bordeaux grapes should hit its stride in 4-5 years and last for three decades. A compelling wine, it is further evidence of the remarkable progress Merryvale has made over the last decade. Moreover, it is the finest wine they have ever produced.

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This elegant, graceful style offers complex aromas of spice, sage, cedar and dark berry. Rich and supple in texture, ending with firm tannins, lingering fruit and melted black licorice notes. Very impressive.

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