| The terrific 1997 Merlot is tannic, but super-concentrated with amazing purity. The dense ruby/purple color is followed by copious aromas of jammy black fruits, chocolate, kirsch, and spice. In the mouth, the wine is backward, with noticeable tannin and high alcohol, but the layers of glycerin, extract, and richness are awesome. This exotic, blockbuster Merlot should be at its finest between 2000-2012. This wine is a crowd-pleasing, exotic offering that takes the level of richness and hedonism to sensational heights. This wine is worth trying if only because of its compelling purity, opulence, and explosive richness. Robert Parker's The Wine Advocate, April 1999.
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