Decanted for an hour and really enjoyed this Merlot. Recommended for a Merlot in the $40 price range.
Thorn Merlot 2012 - The Prisoner Wine Company
Merlot from Napa Valley, California
Winemaker Notes
Deep purple in color, releasing aromas of black cherry with hints of cedar and pencil lead. Dense flavors of dark fruits and rich plum are framed by velvety tannins and a lush finish.
WS | 91
Critical Acclaim - Wilfred Wong of Wine.com
Are you game for this or do just want to say with the familiar? A sort of different kind of Merlot, the 2012 Thorn does not stick to the Bordeaux/Left Bank model. If fact I don't know what template was used to design this wine? There is an endearing note to this wine made me pause in my tracks. Perhaps it is the use of Malbec and Syrah that spins a different tale. After I had competed my look at this one, I simply have to call this one: An American Merlot with a mind of its own. Deep ruby, black color; bold and boastful ripe red fruit aromas, some sandalwood adds nice interest; full bodied, rewarding yet softish on the palate; dryish, moderate acidity, fine balance; nifty, ripe fruit flavors that take it far away from the Old World, delectable. Smooth aftertaste. Drinking now. (Tasted: December 2, 2015, San Francisco, CA)