Very, very nice.  I'm starting to think that some of the best values for US red wines might be the "too often overlooked" Merlots like this one.  The 2005 Havens is a $17.99 bottle that is pleasant all around.  Noticed the beginning scent of a little age on the pour and the nose.  I think we're hitting this at a good time in its lifecycle.  The nose really reminded me of a Merlot from Bordeaux, and the signature French-ness hung around a while, which is likely too a reason why I enjoyed it so much.

But Havens is a dependable name.  I've always enjoyed their wines, and this is a bottle I will keep on hand (I like to have a couple bottles of every variety just in case someone requests something in particular).   And another plus for me - the vineyards are sustainably farmed.  Definitely pick this one up.  If you secretly like Merlots this is a good one.  And if you don't, it just might start to revive some interest.

BlogRoom.com Rating: 13 out of 20

BlogRoom.com *Value Pick*

BlogRoom.com *Bronze Rated*