1999 Sterling Vineyards Merlot Reserve

Community Tasting Notes (14) Avg Score: 88.3 points

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  11/16/2014 - Allagashme wrote: 87 Points

  87 now...was high 89 - 92 a few years ago. What a metaphor for life. It has turned the last corner of a mile long race nearing its last 50m...top of the 9th...a half-inning left with no chance for extra innings. It sang about 6 years go.

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  6/24/2014 - Allagashme wrote: 88 Points

  "Drinking more and more wine than I used to" but not sure I always know what to look for. Read the "drink window" on this site which may not always be accurate. Assuming it was cellared properly at Sterling. Truck to Denver. Stored in 65'ish degree closet for 4 years before it ended up properly cellared with me for 2 more years. Upon opening, more pucker/tannin than I expected for an old wine (or perhaps that's normal?). After 1 hour of decanting, it softened and the velvety texture and blended (balanced?) flavors came out...mild tannins. Soft brick hues. Not as much fruit as I expected but in 'red' family. A hint of 'earthen' flavor but not sure if it's from age or terroir. 88 may be harsh but would be a smidge higher if there was a bit more fruit...or is this unfair expectation?

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  3/27/2014 - rmcnees wrote: 86 Points

  The aged Merlot is showing its age being past its prime drinking window with the diminished black cherry and black berry fruit giving way to ripe raisin and hints of black licorice on a modest finish.

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  8/11/2013 - Acohen Likes this wine: 88 Points

  Was pleasantly surprised after the cork broke when opening. Still has dark fruit and nice balance

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  11/23/2011 - ArlenP wrote: 88 Points

  Nice bottle of wine still has plenty of room left to age. Recommend decanting for an hour plus.

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