Layne 2016 Merlot

Still available though it was released over three years ago, this old vine Merlot has benefitted greatly from the extra time in bottle. The aromatics shoot up from the glass, a rich, enveloping sensory fog. Brambly berries, clean barnyard, light compost, graphite and dried herbs can be detected and then open up in the mouth into a complex single vineyard, single variety expression of the grape. You may not associate Merlot with Southern Oregon, but this makes the case for old vines in the right spot. It's got a hint of tang, with plenty of acid under tart red strawberry fruit. The texture and length tell you it's a wine worth digging into; the flavors hold up very well over several days. 120 cases; 14.5%; $42 (Applegate Valley)

https://quadynorth.orderport.net/product-details/0536/2016-Merlot-Layne-Vineyard--750ml-145pct