Merlot

Shows a meaty, peppery side of Cabernet, rich and extracted, offering dried dark berry and fresh-turned earth. A solid effort with chewy, leathery tannins.

Boasting a rich ruby color and fresh, sweet-smelling black cherry, red plum and blackberry aromas — complemented by whiffs of mint, tobacco and rose hips — this generous red delivers rich, fruit-centered flavors of dark cherry, plum compote and spicy blackberry. In the long, savory finish, lovely cocoa and roasted coffee bean notes emerge, along with a black tea spiciness that gives the wine a zestful kick. Smooth, yet firmly structured, with supple, well-rounded tannins.

The aromas in the wine are quite powerful. There are layers of complexity that complement the luscious flavors of perfectly ripe Merlot. In the mouth there is chocolate laced with cherry fruit. With a lovely softness around a structured wine with just enough tannin and a nice bright acidity, the wine complements cuisine. The fine tannin support the abundant fruit. The finish is long and concentrated with hints of sweet oak.

As always, the first clue as to the depth of Alisos is the deep garnet color. A swirl emits aromas of red fruit and spice that mingle with earthy nuances. The bouquet of boysenberry, grated fresh nutmeg and hints of loam invite a first sip that delivers layers of fresh and dried fruit notes to the palate. The first impression is textural, with velvety tannins and lively acidity mingling and accenting fruit notes of plum, mulberry, dark cherry and herbal notes of sage and lavender. High-tone notes are provided by the Sangiovese, with the Merlot adding structure and a dark base, all brought together on the mid-palate by the dried Sangiovese’s pleasing dried plum note with hints of fresh brioche. Elegant tannins are represented by a suggestion of baker’s chocolate and sarsaparilla on the lingering, persistent finish.