Reviewed last year under the K Vintners label, the 2013 Super Substance Merlot Northridge is a serious effort that’s reminiscent of a top flight Pomerol. It sports a deep ruby/purple color as well as ample black currants, plums, wet clay and earth in a rich, full-bodied, concentrated, layered package that’s already hard to resist. Nevertheless, I suspect it will be even better with 2-3 years of bottle age and drink well over the following 10-15 years.

Brooding aromas of blackberry seed, black currant and licorice are followed by a full-bodied palate, with a tight core of dark-fruit flavors supported by fine-grained tannins. It's near irresistible, showing impeccable styling.