By looking at its saturated purple-black color, you can tell immediately that the 2013 Merus is a powerhouse of a wine. The 2013 is a dark, meaty, fruit-saturated, syrupy mouthful, with swarming aromas of blackberry, crushed violet and beef fat. The mouth follows suit with a powerful entrance of dark fruit. Since it is bone-dry and was fermented at low temperatures, this is an absolute reflection of the strength of the vineyard, the beauty of whole berry fermentation, and the synergies that can occur between wine and wood. Typical to its Coombsville pedigree, it never feels heavy as it fills every corner of your mouth. The 100% new oak provides structure and a pleasing toastiness but doesn’t overwhelm. Decant for at least one hour in advance for maximum pleasure.