Almaden Merlot (5L, 12.5%)

A medium-bodied, dry California Merlot from Escalon in San Joaquin County, packaged in a 5-liter bag-in-box. It is produced as a single-varietal wine and uses a vacuum-sealed tap to minimize oxygen exposure after each pour. The nose shows blackberry, raspberry and light toasty oak, with gentle spice. The palate is soft and fruit-forward, with red cherry, raspberry, moderate oak and spice, and a velvety texture. The finish is medium in length, with berry fruit and a hint of warmth.