Winemaker's comments
We are delighted to offer the 1997 Merlot. The Merlot fruit for this wine comes from the renowned Ciel du Cheval and Klipsun vineyards in the Red Mountain area. This Merlot has a classic spice rack nose and intense flavors of black cherry and plum fuit interlaced with Valrhona chocolate and minerals. The wine has excellent structure and grip and is an excellent candidtate for your cellar.

Reviews
1997 Merlot

International Wine Cellar Reviews

"Good full ruby. Aromatic, rather oaky aromas of black raspberry, blackberry and bitter chocolate, plus a cooler herbal nuance. Lush and thick and quite dry, with a penetrating blackberry and menthol flavors. Rather clenched today and dominated by its acidity. Finishes with substantial, oak-enhanced tannins."

"Full ruby-red. Rather oaky aromas of currant, smoke, cedar and menthol. Lush but quite dry in the mouth, with black fruit and oak flavors. Still grapey and rather unevolved, with solid structure for aging. Finishes with building, tongue-dusting tannins. Not currently displaying the sweetness or density it showed from barrel a year ago. " Score: 88+

Stephen Tanzer, International Wine Cellar

Wine Advocate Review

"While Quilceda Creek is dedicated primarily to the production of Cabernet Sauvignon, it also produces small quantities (around 250 cases) of Merlot (which includes 24% of Cabernet Sauvignon in the blend.) The medium to dark ruby/mahogany-colored 1997 Merlot was predominately made from fruit purchased the Klipsun Vineyard. Warm, dark spicy fruits, fresh herbs, and hints of Italian tomatoes can be discerned in its aromatics. Medium to full-bodied and velvety-textured, it is an embracing wine, packed with blackberries and cassis. It has excellent concentration, as well as a supple attack in mid-palate. The firm finish suggests cellaring. Anticipated maturity: 2004-2010+. " Score: 89

Pierre-Antoine Rovani, Robert M. Parker, Jr.'s, Wine Advocate