Immediately upon opening 2019 Santa Cruz Mountains Merlot the wine is black bramble, cedar, tobacco wrapper, and an almost enveloping sense of depth. Upfront the fruit profile is dark and almost brooding, but as the wine evolves over your palate the fruit turns brighter; think pomegranate, currant, and alpine blueberries. The juxtaposition is engaging and brings life to the end palate in the form of bright acidity and a gripping mouthfeel that lingers long after the wine has passed. For food pairings consider something high in both protein and fat; you can go classic with a grilled or roasted cut of beef, or spice things up with yakitori. Drink now – 2030.