Made from 88% Merlot and 12% Cabernet Sauvignon, the 2017 Merlot The Front Man is deep garnet-purple colored and opens with star anise, fenugreek, cardamom and charcoal scents over a baked plums, blueberry pie and molten chocolate core plus a waft of dried herbs. The palate is medium to full-bodied with plush, rounded tannins, compelling freshness and plenty of expressive, plumy fruit, finishing spicy.

The Merlot-based 2017 Front Man is absolutely delicious. Pliant, racy and supple, the 2017 offers tons of immediacy. Dark red plum, sweet spice, mocha and lavender all meld together in this absolutely delicious red. Even with all of its intensity, the 2017 has terrific freshness as well as structure.