Purple/ruby in color. The nose is nice with dusty cherries, raspberries and carob. On the palate, this has a nice acidity. Soft texture. Some complexity. Raspberry fruit with underlying dry earthiness. Good finish. Served to a group, this was quite a crowd pleaser among wine lover (not wine geeks). This should be pretty versatile with most foods. This retails for $25 which is a very nice value in California Merlot.