Gentle presence on palate, with a sophisticated richness.  Singing blueberry notes coupled with darker fruit, tobacco and terroir touches, augmented by playful tannins.  Real supple personality in this Merlot.  Tasted just as impressive, if not slightly more so the second night open.  Ridiculously reasonable value, only $29 at Back Room Wines, a friend of 1StopWineBlogShop.com.

True, Merlots, at times, in the minds of some, have trouble delivering a   formidable character.  But not this one.  This M. Autumn masterpiece will convert those in mode of Merlot avert.  With the ’07 vintage’s charisma, relentless nature at its back, it’s a bottle to have at ready, or in the cellar.  Either way, this is one that shouldn’t be missed.  [B+]