98 points | Jeb Dunnuck

“The only wine from Sonoma and the first year where the blend includes more Merlot than Cabernet Franc (and Merlot was incredibly successful in 2016), the Melka Mekerra Proprietary Red 2016 is a rocking wine that offers tons of blackcurrants, chocolate, forest floor, and flowery camphor-like notes. Full-bodied, beautifully layered, with building tannins and a great elegance and seamlessness on the palate, it never puts a foot wrong and has a finish that goes on for nearly a minute. A blend of 59% Merlot and 41% Cabernet Franc brought up in 60% new French oak, the only downside is that there are only 425 cases made. If you’re lucky enough to snag some bottles, it should drink beautifully for 15-20 years.” (tasted Jan 2019)

96 Points | Vinous

“Melka Mekerra Proprietary Red 2016, the estate’s Merlot/Cabernet Franc blend, is terrific. Aromatic, deep and sumptuous, the 2016 is absolutely gorgeous today. Wild flowers, tobacco, cedar, menthol, cured meat and dark red cherry fruit are all pushed forward. The Franc is quite expressive today, but what impresses me most about the 2016 is how much it has softened with time in barrel.”Antonio Galloni (Dec 2018)

95 Points | James Suckling

“A beautiful, layered red with plenty of dark-berry, chocolate and hazelnut character. Full-bodied and round. Juicy finish. A blend of cabernet franc and merlot.”