94
Jeb Dunnuck - jebdunnuck.com
I loved the 2020 Merlot Pedestal, which makes the most of the vintage. Full-bodied aromas and flavors of ripe plums, chocolate, spicy oak, and graphite define the aromatics, and it’s concentrated, has ripe, chalky tannins, plenty of mid-palate depth, and a great finish. The blend is 84% Merlot, 15% Cabernet Sauvignon, and the balance Malbec, raised in 75% new French oak.
93 Eric Guido - Vinous Media
The 2020 Merlot Pedestal is dark and spicy, suggesting notes of dark chocolate and grilled herbs that give way to crushed blackberries and hints of camphor. It's luscious and round, with a measured inner sweetness and masses of ripe red and blue fruits that swirl throughout. This leaves a tart wild berry tinge and fine-grained tannins to linger. Finishing long with hints of mocha and sour orange, the 2020 steps lightly but leaves a big impact. Beautiful.