Freemark Abbey, Merlot, Napa Valley, California, USA, 2011

American consumers have had a love/hate relationship with Merlot for decades, but how can you not fall for this little number? It has layers of blackberry and plum with some spice and vanilla oak. Rich on the palate yet fresh, it displays a nice black fruit concentration with a smooth and velvety texture. A very classy Merlot.