Private Selection Rum Barrel-Aged California Merlot

Just don’t like wine aged in old spirit barrels. Pass.

This one was a gift. I don't think I would have reached for it myself as it seems like a gimmick, but I'm glad I'm trying this. The nose is all blueberry... That first sip pours it on again. It's a whole field of blueberries here on the palate. This merlot style is as if a delicate California Petite Sirah grew a pair. It feels muscular thanks to the tannic profile here, but it's by no means a monster either. Vanilla is featuring here. It gets interesting again on the finish as I get a quick flash of molasses presumably from the rum then back to a decent length of that blueberry.

Gift from a friend, and a really nice surprise. Beautiful color and nose. Blueberries, cherries, and a velvety tongue feel with just enough spices to make it interesting. A great complement to grilled meats.

Look, I am not really into these gimmicky wines. However, this one is very interesting. The rum barrel enhances the vanilla quality in this wine. Nice oak and fruit forward. Though I can’t see myself drinking a whole bottle. Palate buster.

Lots of flavor. Really like the barrel aged wines from this vintner.

Chocolate, vanilla rich sweet, forest floor, concentration. Without grassy CP good. 2019 @1000, XingFang, 221104

Not really to my liking

Very dry finish

Great wine.. definitely taste the rum which adds great flavor.

Delicious cabernet sauvigñon aged in rum barrels. Sweet and mellow taste but well balanced, with black fruit hints.
My new favorite.