A very exciting youthful wine with awesome complexity. A dozen different peaks of flavor across its spectrum. Phenomenal with blackberries and dark chocolate. Cellar for 2 years to try to wear off some of the youthful edge. Note: This is not the same wine as the 1996 Santa Ema Merlot Reserve. [November 1999]

Update: Cellaring is progressing very well. This wine has calmed down quite a bit; not as lively, but a whole lot more reserved and expressive. Still drinking very well. More time in the bottle will without a doubt help this wine even more. I am increasing the rating from 80 to 81. [April 2000]