This wine is from United States, California region, North Coast sub-region. Since its first release in 1980, Cartlidge & Browne has won the hearts of consumers who appreciatepremium quality wine at modest prices. Paul Moser, winemaker for the past 25 years, a Stanford gradwho trained in Burgundy and the Loire Valley, finds the right balance between California fruit andEuropean styling. A master blender, he sources from high quality vineyards throughout the state,emphasizing accurate varietal expression, balance, food-friendliness, complexity and most of all - value!Despite the enormous influence of Californias wineries, too few specialize in premium wines at valueprices. One that does is Cartlidge & Browne.Avoiding the extra oak and other types of manipulation usedby some vintners, Cartlidge & Browne produces fruity, pure, and vibrant wines that reflect varietalspersonalities. Even better, it offers sensational quality at bargain basement prices."- Robert Parker. (83% Merlot/17%Cabernet Sauvignon). The Merlot was sourced from grapes grown on seven vineyard sites in four growing areas: Mendocino County (35%), Lake County (33%), Clarksburg (11%) and Sonoma County (4%). The Cabernet Sauvignon contributed 17% to the overall blend and was sourced from Calistoga, Sonoma County. The Mendocino and Lake County parcels were aged for 12 months and the Sonoma County Merlot and Cabernet parcels were aged for 15 months in oak. All the wines saw oak aging (80%American, 20% French), except the Clarksburg lot.. Deep garnet in color. Lush, ripe aromas of plum and black cherry along with spice cake, cocoa, and finetoasty oak. Onthe palate it is generous and soft, with lots of black fruit flavors, mocha and anise. MERLOT Wine