The reserve line of Blackstone's wines have been delivering layers of flavors and elegance for a terrific price, for the twenty dollar price point this merlot delivers on all levels. It starts with a terrific nose packed full of leathery notes and black fruit, that flow into a mouthfeel of big juicy fruit sensations. Flavors of black cherries, black plums and currants, and balanced with notes of pepper and earthy cocoa notes. There is loads of structure that allow the fruit and spice to slowly develop in the mouth, and subtle hints of oak start to surface on the finish. The red fruit and oak linger on the taste buds for just the right amount of time until the next sip. The balance of fruit and oak, along with a note of acidity in the wine make for a terrific food wine, keeping each bite new and fresh. This wine will stand up perfectly to all cuts of beef and lamb.