Lapostolle, Cuvee Alexandre Merlot 2023

"The 2023 Merlot Cuvée Alexandre includes 15% Syrah from Apalta and was aged for 15 months in second- and third-use 225-liter French oak barrels. This red opens with fruit-driven aromas, clove, soft pepper and a touch of oak that lifts the nose. Creamy and broad, with red fruit on the palate, it offers a slightly clingy texture and a delicate silkiness. This is delicious. It's less precise as a varietal, but expressive as a red blend." – Neal Martin