Part of a 3-way, including a 2001 Shafer Merlot(92pts), 2002 Zerba Cellars Columbia Valley Merlot (91pts). and a 2001 Etude Merlot(90pts). Initially the Etude and Shafer took front stage with their rich dark fruit/tannin profiles that overshadowed the Zerba and its zestier acid balance, more in the red fruit/red plum direction. After 90 minutes the Etude put on a lot of weight and got richer, albeit heavier as well, whereas the Shafer continued with its bright berried fruit profile to the end. The Zerba turned out more food friendly (paired w/beautifully broiled NY cut steak and fabulous salad of baby greens, goat cheese, red bells and fresh herbs) and balanced too. My favorite was the Shafer, which I gave 92pts. As much as I love great Pinot Noir, especially the best from Oregon and California, I'm reminded how good a fine, well structured Merlot can taste. (320 views)
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11/5/2012 - MoreWinePlease wrote: 91 Points
Part of a 3-way, including a 2001 Shafer Merlot(92pts), 2002 Zerba Cellars Columbia Valley Merlot (91pts). and a 2001 Etude Merlot(90pts). Initially the Etude and Shafer took front stage with their rich dark fruit/tannin profiles that overshadowed the Zerba and its zestier acid balance, more in the red fruit/red plum direction. After 90 minutes the Etude put on a lot of weight and got richer, albeit heavier as well, whereas the Shafer continued with its bright berried fruit profile to the end. The Zerba turned out more food friendly (paired w/beautifully broiled NY cut steak and fabulous salad of baby greens, goat cheese, red bells and fresh herbs) and balanced too. My favorite was the Shafer, which I gave 92pts. As much as I love great Pinot Noir, especially the best from Oregon and California, I'm reminded how good a fine, well structured Merlot can taste. (320 views)
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1/17/2012 - MoreWinePlease wrote: 88 Points
Held up pretty well, not entirely over the hill w/some good fruit still singing on key.
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9/12/2011 - MoreWinePlease wrote: 86 Points
Fruit fading...
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4/25/2006 - GolferChris wrote: 91 Points
Big Merlot. Layers of red fruit flavors and plenty of tannin to hold your interest. Nice long finish and lots of complexity and depth.
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