KENWOOD VINEYARDS

KENWOOD VINEYARDS 2OO7 SONOMA COUNTY MERLOT and RESERVE MERLOT
Aged for 22 months in small French and American oak barrels, and blended with a tiny amount of Cabernet Sauvignon for additional complexity, this Merlot has fresh, forward loganberry and blueberry aromas complemented by a generous note of herbs and a restrained note of spice.  Bright cherry, loganberry and spice highlight the medium-bodied flavors.  Suggested retail is $16.  The Reserve Merlot was aged for 22 months in small French oak barrels exclusively and showcases blueberry, cinnamon and clove aromas, accented by a suggestion of smoke.  Powerful black fruit flavors, primarily blackberry and blueberry, meld with heady spice notes.  Dense on the palate, with firm tannins that promise additional development with cellaring, it finishes with surprising delicacy.  Only 16OO six-bottle cases were produced.  Suggested retail is $25.  Available from Horizon Beverage.