I've done both the High Tail California Merlot and the High Tail Cab. Sauv .And were happy with them both. I did manage to scoop mine at the time for $75 each so it was worth the dollars for me. IMO for a straight merlot there are kits that I think taste just as good but easier on the pocketbook.
See it's $159.00 on the east coast - a little higher then the EP line. Jees they must have delivered the Hightail to the East Coast by hand and individually in order to double the price.
I don't think it's much cheaper here out West but I've been getting mine direct from Spagnols so I luck out on unadvertised clearance sales.
The $75 price I got mine for was just a clearance sale I lucked in on. I picked up a EP Sauv.Blanc for $50 yesterday. They're shutting down here and have a few clearance items.
You might find some cheaper deals out your way soon because Spagnols is closing here and heading out to Ontario.