Sourced from their vineyards in Sonoma County's Bennett Valley, Matanzas Creek 2004 Merlot is skillfully blended by Winemaker François Cordesse with small percentages of Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah and Cabernet Franc. The result is a vibrant, ambitious wine representing the winery's 26th vintage of Merlot.

This wine begins with a garnet red color in the glass. A potpourri of fresh herbs arrive with the first nose, including thyme, sage, and clove with hints of hawthorn and quince. Swirling the wine once brings the second nose of dark boysenberries and velvety cherries. Distinctly spicy, the palate begins with clove, pepper, and quince, followed by a long, smooth finish with blackberry and moist earth notes, reminiscent of deep woods after the rain. The wine possesses an exceptional acidic balance complemented by soft tannins. Mineral characteristics are just beginning to develop and will, over time, offer additional elegance and complexity.