2001 Merus Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon (wrinkled & torn label) (Previously $160)
SKU #1442727
96 points
Robert Parker's Wine Advocate
A superb effort from then-proprietor Mark Herold and his former wife, Erika Gottl, the 2001 Merus reveals an opaque purple color along with an extraordinary bouquet of camphor, graphite, blackberries, blueberry liqueur and subtle oak. It has resolved most of its tannins and is now a full-bodied, concentrated, well-balanced, impressively endowed stunner that has hit its plateau of full maturity where it should remain for another 10-15+ years. Drink through 2026. (RP)
(6/2011)
95 points
Wine Spectator
Has gained with age; still big, bold, ripe and expressive, with tiers of juicy plum, blackberry, chocolate brownie and espresso, yet for all its girth it's elegant and graceful, ending with a touch of kirsch. (JL, Web Only-2011)
93 points
Stephen Tanzer's International Wine Cellar
Deep, bright ruby. Superripe aromas of black raspberry, roasted cassis, licorice, pipe tobacco and smoked meat. Dense, rich and sweet, with flamboyant flavors of cassis, licorice, leather, game and black tea. As extracted and high in alcohol (15.1%) as this is, its lovely ripe acidity somehow keeps it fresh and gives it shape. Finishes very long and sweet, with suave, melting tannins. Very impressive California Cabernet, and a wonderful example of the vintage. (ST)
(6/2004)