Made from 100% Merlot, the 2018 Merlot Mt. Veeder was aged for 22 months in oak, 80% new. Deep garnet-purple colored, it rolls effortlessly out of the glass with notions of stewed plums, baked blackberries and sautéed herbs plus hints of beef drippings, cloves and pencil lead. Full-bodied, plush and decently generous, the finish delivers compelling black fruit layers with loads of freshness. 482 cases were made.