2002 Merus Cabernet Sauvignon
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Tasting notes
This wine has tightened down considerably since I first had it, which surprised me. Its dense opaque bluish/purple color offers up notes of charred wood and barbecue smoke as well as oodles of blackberry jam, licorice, and camphor. Some graphite also makes an impression in this full-bodied, massive and muscular, yet impressively built and multi-dimensional Cabernet Sauvignon. This cross-valley blend has turned out exceptionally well, but it is still a good 4-5 years away from full maturity, where it should stay for 15-20 years. Tel. (707) 251-5551
Critic scores
Average Score
Robert Parker
Antonio Galloni, Vinous
More reviews and scores
Deep, bright, saturated ruby. Very ripe but fresh aromas of blackberry, violet, licorice, dark chocolate and smoked meat. Densely packed but juicy and delineated, with very ripe black fruit flavors framed and lifted by fresh acidity. Finishes juice and very long, with explosive dark fruit flavors and noble tannins. This has uncommon vivacity for a California Cabernet with this much richness and depth. (ST)