1999 Melka 'Metisse' Proprietary Red, Napa Valley, USA 750ml

The 1999 Metisse is a 500-case blend of 70% Cabernet Sauvignon, 20% Merlot, and 10% Cabernet Franc (a different blend than when I first tasted it from barrel), that sees approximately 50% new French oak. Combining Bordeaux's elegant, highly nuanced style with Napa's sweet, ripe, concentrated fruit, its French sensitivity is accompanied by wonderful opulence and purity. The dense ruby/purple color is followed by aromas of cassis, jammy black cherries, blackberries, coffee, and fudge. It is deep, rich, pure, and medium to full-bodied, with moderate tannin in the finish. It should age gracefully for 15+ years.