Steele Wines 2008 Stymie Merlot

Winery: Steele Wines

Grape(s): Merlot

Special Designation: Stymie

Region: Lake County

Year: 2008

Price: 40-45

Review:

Aromas of plums, currants, and chocolate covered cherries meld with notes of fennel seed and smoke on the nose. A sip reveals flavors of cherry, cassis, and plum with accents of white pepper, tobacco, and roast coffee. A nicely structured, nicely layered wine with bright, robust flavors, it’s a clear standout from all those wimpy Merlots.

Rating: 93

Character: dark fruit, rich mouthfeel, supple tannins