92 points Wine Spectator: "Shows seductive aromas of rich currant, with mocha and espresso bean oak. Deep, complex, intense and concentrated. The long, full, persistent finish has firm, ripe tannins and lays the fruit and oak out in spades." (05/07) 90 points Robert Parker: "Pahlmeyer has consistently produced one of the finest, most ageworthy Merlots in California. Their 2004 Merlot (a blend of 87.5% Merlot and 12.5% Cabernet Sauvignon) exhibits a soft, fleshy, up-front, charming bouquet of chocolate, berry fruit, and roasted herbs. Round, front-end loaded, and seductive, it should be enjoyed over the next 7-8 years." (12/06) 91 points Stephen Tanzer: "Bright ruby-red. Subtly complex nose melds blueberry, cassis, tar, licorice, wild spices and minerals. Intense berry flavors are firmed by lively acidity. Not yet especially nuanced but this one boasts a lovely tight core of fruit and appears to be built to age. Finishes firmly tannic, with strong fruit."
