Rombauer Vineyards' 2001 Napa Valley Merlot is deliciously rich and concentrated. It has layers of black cherry, plum, clove, and cinnamon in both the aroma and flavor. The wine has a long finish of cherry and plum with a light vanilla note from oak aging. Supple tannins add to the wine's character. Drink now through 2009.

Rating: 89/100 - As reviewed by Connoisseurs' Guide to California Wines on Mar-06