1997 Old Vines Merlot
Magnum

In 2006, when the reputation of Long Island wines was still emerging, Robert Parker’s ‘The Wine Advocate’ reviewed this wine and awarded it 90 points.  Here are the reviewer’s comments: “Some of the 1997 Merlot Old Vines [are still] in commercial circulation, a wine that will convince tasters doubtful of Long Island’s potential. Liqueur-like black cherry, wood smoke, and new leather scents introduce a quite thick, dense, and polished palate of black fruits and herbs – ripe, yet without any superficial sweetness. A long and involved finish featuring roasted meats, black fruits, and high-toned herbal essences provides great satisfaction. There would be no harm in cellaring this for a few more years.”

 

Now that this wine has those ‘few more years’ under its belt, we can confirm that no harm was done.  Here’s what our seven tasters said about this wine:

• Cedar on the nose

• Soft tannins and still has its fruit

• A nice older wine

• Drink now

• Super-soft

• Plenty of fruit; plum; currant

• Cardamom; leather; some truffle

• Long finish