A cornucopia of mixed berries and brown spice, the Lake Effect Merlot is a soft and crowd-pleasing red. Hand-harvested and fermented on skins for 18 days in both oak and stainless steel, then aged in French oak for 18 months, it builds structure while maintaining a smooth profile. Aromas of black cherry, roasted pepper, and cocoa lead into a plush palate layered with ripe berry fruit and warm spice. Balanced tannins and a long finish of vanilla and spice give this Merlot both approachability and depth.