Deep ruby in colour with a medium+ intensity on the nose.

Positives: Cedar, English fruitcake, cinnamon, cocoa, plums, blackberry, cherry cola & dry sage on the finish. Full body with medium+ tannins, good acidity & long length.

Negatives: Some heat coming from the 14.4% alcohol.

Interesting Point: In comparison to the Beringer Knights Valley Cab, just reviewed, which is very similar in price, the Knights Valley is superior.

Drink now on its own or cellar it for another 5 years. Pairs well with braised beef.

Tasted: 23 May 12,

Score: 9/10, Value: 8.5/10, Total: 17.5/20

Out of 5 stars, I rated this wine: 4

Tasted 25 May 12: I had left some wine to taste two days later and it was gorgeous, just as I had hoped for when I originally opened it up. The notes that rose to the forefront were: cassis, cloves, smoked bacon, cinnamon and espresso. I am upgrading my score to 9+/10, value: 9/10, total: 18.5/20 and out of 5 stars: 4.5

This Merlot opens up with aromas of bing cherry, blackberry, fruit cake, cedar and burnt sugar. On the palate, medium-full bodied with alcohol coming in at 14.4%, ripe black fruit flavours, low acidity and firm tannins. Medium length on the finish with flavours of plums, spices and cedar wrap up by fine grainy tannins. I remember purchasing half a dozen of Beringer Merlot 2006 from Napa Valley release in November of 2010. Compared to that vintage (2006), this 2009 vintage lacks complexity and structure with no energy on the palate. I expected more for a $30.00 Merlot, it may get better with a few years in bottle, enjoyed in May 2012.