Havens Reserve Merlot 2003

A blend of 94% Merlot, 1.5% Cabernet Franc and 4.5% Cabernet Sauvignon.

With a full two years bottle aging before release, the 2003 Merlot Carneros has already developed into a distinctive wine: black fruits, hints of allspice, mace and anise and a broad-but-firm backbone. This wine shows off 2003's best character, the firm structure of late-harvested Carneros fruit, and the complexity that comes from Merlot planted in a superior site. It should age well for another five to eight years from release, not simply surviving, but developing more intricate texture and exotic aroma.