2016 La Jota Vineyard W. S. Keyes Merlot Howell Mountain, USA Champagne Thienot Colour: The colour is bright

Colour: The colour is bright

There's smoky

lightly chewy tannins and a delicious finish already

delicious red fruit notes you expect from the grape variety as well as hints of liquorice and tobacco

This second wine from cru bourgeois Malleret is still fruity with acidity and juicy black currant fruits

2016 La Jota Vineyard W. S. Keyes Merlot Howell Mountain, USA Champagne Thienot Colour: The colour is brightThe violet and lavender aromas are so beautiful. Berries, black olives and spice. Full body, firm and silky tannins and a gorgeous finish. Wonderful. 77 per cent merlot and 23 per cent cabernet sauvignon. The Masseto of Napa. Try in 2023. 98 Pts James Suckling