Interesting your notes on the '98 Merryvale Profile. I’ve not tried it, but have had the '97 Profile several years ago. As you implied, it is clearly California, but of a more graceful style. My notes are as follows:
Had this with today’s lunch of grilled baby lamb chops. Unmistakably Napa in nose, flavors and body. Quite visually attractive in its deep, dense (yet reflective) dark purple with a red >
> and ruby-red highlights; it’s aromas charged from the glass - cassis, blackcurrant, some black cherry, prominent cedar mixed with menthol and suggestions of mint leaf. The Stockbroker said it reminded him of Opus One.
In the mouth, not surprisingly, the dominant flavors were blackcurrant/cassis, dark berry compote, some blueberry and slight black cherry notes, vanilla/oak, with espresso and sweet cedar coming through mid-mouth and to the back. Long graceful finish. Very well-knit, virtually seamless. Generous body and weight but not at all cumbersome; cool, smooth, luxurious on the tongue. Sweet, silky tannins. Superior balance and structure.
This would be a crowd-pleaser of a Napa red. Not contemplative, not to be pondered over, but very enjoyable nonetheless. The Doc and the Stockbroker seemed in agreement.
I’ve had a few vintages of Pahlmeyer reds, mainly because one of my friends used to sell them. I’ve not had one that didn’t taste like oaky berry syrup. Not my type at all.
Best,
N