1996 Melka 'Metisse', Napa Valley, USA 1.5L

Metisse is the name of the limited production wine made by the talented young French winemaking consultant, Philippe Melka (also the winemaker for Seavey and J. Lail Vineyards). The 1996 Proprietary Red (240 cases made from a blend of 40% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Merlot, and 30% Cabernet Franc) is Bordeaux-like, but with additional ripeness from the splendid California fruit. A dark ruby/purple color is followed by aromas of cedar, spice box, lead pencil, and black currants. Sweet tannin, plum, smoke, and spice are evident in this rich, full-bodied, concentrated red.