Tasting notes:

Since 1994, the Barlow Smith family winery has had farming at its heart. Barlow Vineyards has the Bordeaux varieties (Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot) and almost indigenous Zinfandel in its warm Calistoga vineyards. The family ethos pervades this fantastic example of warmclimate Merlot. Vibrant ruby in hue, the wine exhibits red plums, wild strawberries and damson fruit with tobacco and hints of black tea. The seductive palate is ripe and intense, the flavours framed by lively acidity and chalky-textured tannins. A hint of herbal lift adds interest. Persistent, tight and etched on the finish, this is a wine for roast turkey filled with pork-and-red onion stuffing, with rosemary and lemon. (Patricia Stefanowicz MW)