The Mercer Family Vineyards tier gradually is transitioning to the rising Mercer Bros. brand, and this bottling will guide those familiar with the “Edge of Heaven” blend. While the 2016 EofH led with Merlot, winemaker Jeremy Santo chose to have Syrah (41%) edge ahead of Merlot (40%), with Malbec (13%) and trickles of Cabernet Sauvignon and Grenache. Sixteen months in barrel, with 25% of those new French oak, accounts for the nose of medium toast that plays with hints of cherry, strawberry-rhubarb jam and tar. That Syrah provides some voluptuousness to the midpalate that’s framed by pleasing cherry and cassis flavors which surround dusty tannins and lead out with black raspberry acidity. At $19.99, this is not quite in our “Best Buy” price range, but it’s close.
Rating: Excellent
Production: 1,285 cases
Alcohol: 14.5
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