Stevenot Merlot 2005

Vinted and bottled by Stevenot (est. 1978), Murphys, CA 95247. Sierra Foothills. 14.5%.

Ripe, deep berry fruit nose. Some raspberry, some cherry, hint of alcohol. Ruby and violet color. Crisp and a bit inky, nice oak and plenty of lingering smoke and fruit. Excellent balanced finish. Very good, flavorful and supple wine. Unlike many CA merlots, this example of "the other noble" works well with the fruitiness to make an interesting, taste-y, long-lingering wine.
Some weeks later:
Had some again. Impressed me again. Great flavor in this better than expected wine.