Tawny hues emerge from the predominantly ruby color. A bouquet of plums and mixed berries, with notes of tobacco, leather, and wood, rise from the glass. A complex palate of plums, cherries, pomegranate, earth, and underbrush, are held together by a bright acidity. The length is medium plus, and shows the tarter side of its flavor spectrum. This uncommon Merlot from the Rhone is a hybrid of sorts: a French country wine that shows its terroir very prominently, yet still stays true to much of its varietal Merlot characteristics. Definitely something to try out, and, especially at such a reasonable price, this could be your every day and party red.