The 2019 Long Haul checks in as 72% Merlot, 20% Cabernet Sauvignon, and the rest Petit Verdot and Cabernet Franc that was brought up in 59% new French oak. Rocking levels of blue (and some red) fruits as well as chocolate, spring flowers, and spicy oak give way to a deep, rich, medium to full-bodied, wonderfully balanced, elegant red blend that can be drunk any time over the coming 10-15 years.

Merlot makes up 77% of this wine, with Cabernet Sauvignon 20% and the rest bits of Petit Verdot and Cabernet Franc. The aromas pull you into the glass, with notes of dark chocolate, raspberry, flower, black cherry, espresso and sautéed fresh herbs. The palate is chock-full of fruit and barrel flavors, with the tannins polished to a fine sheen. It hangs on the finish. It's drinking beautifully now but has a very long life ahead of it.

The outstanding 2019 Merlot Long Haul delivers plenty of generous dark fruits with sagebrush undertones on the palate. Firm, with soft tannins, this isn't going anywhere for another decade. This is delicious, decadent Merlot-based wine that is already nicely evolved.