Rated 90 - The 2008 Merlot will go a long way toward repairing the grape’s reputation as a libido killer. Purple-colored, it sports an enticing bouquet of cedar, black cherry, plum, and violets. Full-bodied, layered, and succulent on the palate, this ripe effort is well balanced despite its size, and has a lengthy, fruit-filled finish. Drink it over the next 5 years. -Robert Parker