2005 Newton Merlot, Napa Valley, California

Deep purple (the color, not the band), highly reflective, gorgeous color. Very viscous in the glass. Nose has blue and black fruits. Floral notes. The wine is medium bodied, very plush. It's fairly balanced but perhaps needs more time for the tannins to integrate. Very acidic on the first taste, with tartness, red fruit, currants, earthy,slightly bitter mid-palate, long finish with fruit to spare! About $60.