A new offering, the 1999 Merlot Vintner's Select Mountaintop Vineyard, is a selection of Jim Pride and Bob Foley's favorite Merlot lots. Approximately 20% Cabernet Sauvignon has been added to the blend. This is a "Balls to the wall" sort of wine…opaque purple-colored, with notes of melted fudge intermixed with dense black cherry, tightly wound, but oh, so concentrated flavors. The depth, sweetness of fruit, and richness of the tannin are incredible given the fact that this wine emerged from such a cool year. One of the finest California Merlots I have tasted, it will drink well for 12 - 15 years.