2005 Newton Merlot
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Tasting notes
Bright, dark red. Full-blown aromas of plum, fruitcake, tobacco leaf, truffle and nutty oak. Then almost syrupy and exotic in the mouth but with a sound acid spine giving shape to the red fruit and mocha flavors. Finishes with smooth tannins and good length. Boasts an enticing texture but can't hide its 15.5% alcohol.
Critic scores
Average Score
Robert Parker
Stephen Tanzer, Vinous
More reviews and scores
The 2005 Unfiltered Merlot is a beauty, dark ruby/purple with notes of cassis, plum, a hint of mocha, some truffle, and a long, full-bodied mouthfeel. There is tannin to shed, but the wine is fleshy, pure, and impressive. It should drink nicely for at least 15 or more years. One of the most spectacularly beautiful vineyards, high on the lower slopes of Spring Mountain, is Newton Vineyards. Organically farmed and impeccably manicured, this was one of the first outposts to which famed Bordeaux consultant Michel Rolland came, and an entire generation of winemakers formed by his brilliance have emerged from Newton. The overall style of the wine is one built on European elegance and longevity. The vintages from the early 1990s are still doing well, especially the 1990 and 1991. Tel. (707) 963-9000; Fax (707) 944-1123