Reviews & Ratings

2004 Swanson Vineyards Merlot

Winery: Swanson Vineyards

Vintage: 2004

Wine Name/Vineyard:

Wine Category: Merlot

Grape blend: Merlot, Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon, & Cabernet Franc

Bottle size: 750 ml

Region: Oakville

State or country: CA

Price: $36

Cases produced: 14,114

KWG Score: 90.8 (based on 5 reviews)

Ken's Wine Rating: Excellent (97.99-94)

Review date: December 27, 2007

Wine Review: Swanson has been making terrific Merlot for a long time, but winemaker, Chris Phelps may have outdone himself with this vintage. If you like solid structured Merlot, look no further. This very dark purple wine opens with a heavenly spicy cherry like bouquet. On the palate, this wine has exceptionally concentrated spicy blackberry flavors with hints of oak that are to die for. The finish is dry, has fine tannins that go on for a while. This Merlot is one that you could cellar for a few years or just enjoy with a nice juicy steak right now. Get this wine quickly as the secret is now out. Enjoy – Ken

Winemaker Notes: "This wine is an intense expression of Merlot. Black cherry, blackberry, smoke and espresso are prominent on the nose and palate. Powerful, satiny tannins provide the stunning texture for which Swanson Merlot is known. Warmly inviting upon release, this wine will continue to evolve for the next eight to ten years and hold for several years after that. Featuring the power of Oakville and refinement of Pomerol, close your eyes as you savor this wine and you may find yourself on Bordeaux’s Right Bank."

Buy it: Use 1000 Corks to find stores that sell Merlot.