2004 Marquis Philips Merlot (WIML80,NOWA,NOWS)

Tasted October 16, 2005 at a retail tasting so brief comments. Opened and served immediate in Riedel restaurant line Syrah glasses. Crimson color in the glass, clear hue throughout. Nose of mocha, crushed black berries and a little thistle. Flavors are very offputting earthy with some Bing cherries including pits thrown in. Heavy tannins, light acidity, no balance at all IMO. I keep thinking they’ll figure out how to produce a drinkable Merlot but I guess that is wishful thinking. Drink if you must. A big passaroono in my book.