'02 Hahn Central Coast Meritage

[newsguy]

this is the best value meritage i've ever had. i loved the '01 vintage (posted on it under this category in october), and i think the '02 might even be a hair better. have had 4 bottles of the '02 with consistent notes and scores. (am way behind on my postings, sorry)...

($12.99) the '02 is a blend of 46% Merlot, 39% Cabernet Sauvignon, 8% Malbec, 5% Cabernet Franc, and 2% Petite Verdot. this young wine is blackish purple in color. a deep nose that starts with cherry liquer and plums, shifting to vanilla and blackberry. rich, tongue-coating mouthfeel, with flavors of dark fruits, developing mocha notes over time. fine, drying tannins that don't affect the long finish. this wine has great concentration of fruit and perfect balance. drinking wonderfully now and should even improve a bit over time. drink through 2010. 92 points.

you really want to give this wine a try. it is a no-brainer case buy. and it gives us reason to be optimistic about the '02 vintage.

[This message has been edited by newsguy (edited 02-19-2004).]

[winoweenie]

Newsie this is a super little winery. Will look for the 02. WW

[sedhed]

Did you get this at b-21 or ABC?

[newsguy]

WW: the '02 *definitely* is worth checking out.

sed: B-21 purchase. have a case and a half and want more. one of those wines that's drinking great very young but will still go a ways.

[Drew]

Do agree, Keith, popped one the other night and your tn's are right on. My only issue with this bottling is the wine is ladden with those fine grained tannins from start to finish...gonna lay a few down for a while to soften it up.

Drew