Red Wines    Merlot    Napa Valley    California   
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My Rating (circle) :
Date Printed: 1/6/2009
(search item no. 90887)
Wine & Spirits rating: 94 points
PRICE ON 1/6/2009: $33.99

ratings pedigree (past vintages):
2005 The Wine News rating: 92 points

Winemaker's Notes:

2004 Swanson Merlot is a powerful, concentrated expression of the variety. The nose shows black cherry, smoke, blackberry, and espresso. The flavors in the mouth echo the aromatic expression nicely. The fine-grained tannins for which Swanson Merlots have become known provide the round, ripe texture of this wine.

While drinking surprisingly well today, this wine will improve and be enjoyable for at least the next 6-8 years.

My Notes:

About Swanson:

Founded by W. Clarke Swanson, Jr. in 1985, Swanson Vineyards consists of 140 acres of estate vineyards in the Oakville area of Napa Valley. The winery produces Merlot, Syrah, Sangiovese, Pinot Grigio, a late harvest Semillon, plus their flagship proprietary blend of Cabernet Sauvignon and Sryah, called "Alexis."