1999 Verite "La Muse" Sonoma County Red Wine (Bent corner on label)

97 Points from Robert Parker: "A blend of 89% Merlot and 11% Cabernet Sauvignon (84% of the fruit from Sonoma and 16% from Napa), the 1999 is soft enough to be considered fully mature. Sweet aromas of espresso roast, plum sauce, black currants and forest floor are followed by a delicious, chewy, complex wine that should drink well for another 12-14 years." (5/1/2011)

93 Points Vinous: "Good dark red, not hugely lucid. Wonderfully energetic aromas and flavors of redcurrant, plum, cedar and tobacco, plus a whiff of leather. At once plush and vinous, seamless and energetic, in the mold of an old-style Pomerol. There's nothing overdone about this Merlot-based blend. Finishes with a fine dusting of tannins and mounting sweetness. A point. (14.1% alcohol)" (03/2019)