Behrens & Hitchcock Oakville Merlot Fortuna Vineyard (Napa Valley) 2002

This eminently age worthy Merlot was still in fine fettle when opened tonight. I always worry about the plastic corks B&H used to use, which I believe are the least desirable of all the stopper alternatives, but this wine showed no sign of either oxidation or anaerobic off flavors. Instead, it was a clean wine with some oomph. Deep dark red and black fruits, especially currants and prunes. Some cedar and tobacco. Delicious. Could probably continue to develop for several more years before peaking. Grade: B++