Review and Rating: *** Chez Ray Merlot, 2004, Lodi, CA

Review: The Chey Ray Lodi Merlot, 2004, is medium deep red in the glass. Aromas are "spongy" red fruit, saturated raspberry-ish sponges. On the palate, sweet oaken fruit is clearly the first note. The flavors resolve into brighter rich, sweet raspberry reds touched with peppery oak. Doing well with age. A bit "hot" of alcohol. Modest finish. Three stars out of five.
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After a full day in the decanter: The raspberry becomes just a bit more cherry-like, yielding a slight improvement. Other notes consistent.