2011 Côtes duTarn IGP Merlot "La Maze", South-west France, France

Fairly deep nose with a hint of bloody meat, ripe black berries, leather, spicy oak, dried tomatoes and mushrooms. Ripe, fairly juicy,slightlywarm fruit on the palate, touch of spicy oak andsome chocolate, integrated tannins, good substance and persistence, some depth, quite full-bodied, noticeable high, but well integrated alcohol, herbaceous traces in the background, light ethereal notes, hint of tobacco, light salty notes, more dried tomatoes in the background, unmistakeable varietal character, very good, juicy, warm, toasted finish.

Best to drink: Mid-2020-2028+ What our ratings mean