2013 Pride Mountain Vineyards Merlot Napa Sonoma

(90 Points  -------  Vinous)

Today, the Merlot is deep, dense and powerful, but it also drinks surprisingly well for the year. Dark cherry, mocha, plum, smoke, licorice, spice and French oak are all quite forward. Drink this plump, giving Merlot over the next handful of years. The 40% new French oak is a bit dominant today. (AG)