The 2021 John X Merriman is a blend of 63% Cabernet Sauvignon, 20% Merlot and 11% Malbec with 6% Petit Verdot (the Cabernet Franc has been pulled out) from the estate only. It is aged for 20 months in barrel using one-third new oak. The intense nose oers plush blackberry and boysenberry fruit, quite lush and heady, though it manages to maintain delineation. The palate is medium-bodied with pliant tannins. I appreciate the harmony and judicious soupçon of cracked black pepper mixed with graphite, enlivening the nish. Very assured and very delicious. Though it will be approachable young, it will age with style