Almaviva 1999 Red Chile, South America Fragrant and aristocratic nose, with notes of cherries, blackberries and cigar box. Smooth tannins and the sweetness of bitter chocolate.

Andretti 1999 Merlot Napa Valley, California Merlot’s increasing popularity over the last few years derives from its fruit intensity and complexity that mimics Cabernet, but remains a much softer and more approachable wine. A rich texture and good body are hallmarks of this varietal and the Merlot from Andretti is characterized by layers of cherries, orange blossoms, plum and raspberry jam. With long aging in French oak, this is a wine that can be enjoyed now or will provide added pleasure with four to six years of additional aging.

This velvety, medium-heavy bodied wine is best served with strong cheeses, hearty pasta dishes, light beef dishes, lamb and game as well as fine chocolate.

Arrowood 2000 Grand Archer Merlot Sonoma Valley, California Blended with small amounts of Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon for added complexity, this is a rich and classic Merlot. Effusive fruit aromas of plum and blackberry are complemented by toasty oak, balanced tannin and a tart cherry finish. Aged up to 15 months in seasoned French and American oak barrels to soften the wine, the GRAND ARCHER Merlot is a limited production wine worth seeking out.