Wine Spectator:  Rated as Outstanding: a wine of superior character and style.  "Dense and concentrated, with a substantial core of rich, earthy tannins, but also wonderful currant, sage and herb notes. Excellent balance, depth and range of flavor on the finish. Best from 2006 through 2012. 760 cases made." May 2005

Connoisseurs' Guide:  Rated as a A highly distinctive wine. Likely to be memorable.  "Wonderfully rich oak works to sweeten this very inviting Merlot from first sniff to finish, but for all of its creamy enticements and its undisguised ripeness, the wine is defined first and last by its deep and confident fruit. Full and fleshy in feel, and so well extracted as to make its slight finishing heat forgivable, this is one to team with recipes of commensurable richness such as mesquite-grilled rib-eye steaks drizzled with a red wine reduction." Nov 2005

Winery:  "Gracing the front cover of Connoisseur’s Guide to California Wine, Delectus Merlot is an icon to what Merlot was meant to be: boldly memorable and not leaving you begging for more substance. At Delectus we are committed to bringing back the true nature of great Merlot.

A deep, broody nose reveals nuances of clove, cedar, and dark cherries. The mouth is chewy, long, and has well integrated oak."

Wired For Wine:  Now this is a Merlot.  One of the best we've ever had.  When it comes to food, this Napa Merlot is a powerhouse of versatility.  It's dense, concentrated meatiness make it the perfect partner for rich recipes, but it goes with many different things from lamb and lean red meats to pork loin, salmon and tuna done boldly.  We love the Delectus with a ragout of lamb with black olives and fresh thyme.  It engages the earthy side of this excellently balanced Merlot beautifully.  The deep and confident fruit characteristics of Napa's Oakville appellation will shine brightly with roast duck with a not-too-sweet dried cherry sauce.  If you prefer  something on the simpler side, a portobello and arugala pizza will satisfy nicely, as will a hearty meat lasagna.

Size:  750ml
Vintage:  2001
Varietal:  97% Merlot, 3% Cabernet Sauvignon
Alcohol:  15.2%
Region:  Oakville, Napa Valley, California
Production:  760 dozen