Diana Snowden Seysses produces the kind of New World Merlot we can get behind. With the "Cousins" label, she departs Napa for the Zayante vineyard's own-rooted vines in the Sant Cruz Mountains. Merlot's quintessential purple plush fruit meets with underbrush and graphite tones you only get from cool climate and high elevation.

Note: I am returning empty bottles to the winery. If you're local, please buy, enjoy the wine, and bring the bottles back. I'll take 10% off your next order.