2004 Amuse Bouche “Merlot”

Paul and I really enjoyed a magnum of this wonderful right bank Pomerol-style wine made by famous winemaker Heidi Peterson Barrett. The name Amuse Bouche is a French noun meaning “amusement for the mouth”, and that it is The bottle artwork on the offerings is a conversation piece unto itself. The artwork on the 2004 was done by renowned Napa Valley artist Ira Yeager http://www.irayeager.com/.

Vintage: 2004

Appellation: Napa Valley

Varietal: 98% Merlot, 2 % Cabernet Franc

Tasting: A very complex bouquet with unctuous layer of dark plum, bright cherry, raspberry, wild berry, black berry, anise, cassis, forrest floor, tobacco, Spanish cedar, smoke, lavender, black pepper, violets, with a nice minerality. On the palate the wine is very broad, round, and savory with a full mouth-feel. Smooth integrated tannins with beautiful elegance and incredible balance with an extremely long pleasant finish. Rating: 94 PC, 95 JH