Merlot
- Pride, Napa-Sonoma Counties, California, 2003 $85.00
- An openly seductive style, with ripe currant, blackberry and wild berry fruit shaded by splashy mocha and espresso bean oak flavors. It's complex and concentrated, but also quite tannic, so if you pull the cork tonight, decant an hour.
- Northstar, Walla Walla Valley, Washington, 2000 $84.00
- Cherry is the predominant flavor in this wine, which is complimented with a nice oak finish.
- Shafer, Napa Valley, California, 2004 $72.00
- Ripe, juicy plum, blackberry and wild berry fruit is lively, plush, well-proportioned and highly distinctive, finishing with a burst of fruit and pretty toasty-oak shadings.
- L'Ecole No 41, "Seven Hills Vineyard", Walla Walla Valley, Washington, 2002 $55.00
- Polished, generous, focused, not heavy but fleshy enough to show off its pure currant, cherry and dusky spice flavors. The finish lingers impressively, all the while keeping a refined balance.
- Ehlers, "Estate", Napa Valley, California, 2004 $44.00
- There is a burst of intriguing berry fruit and spice on the palate as well. The finish is long with lingering acidity, making it a great food wine. American Oak accentuates the fine tannins and adds a hint of crème brûlée and rich chocolate. Yum!
- Pine Ridge, "Crimson Creek", Napa Valley, California, 2002 $43.00
- Hints of cedary oak and dried currant, with a touch of spice, and it's well-balanced on the palate, with good depth but a dry edge on the finish.
- Wild Horse, Central Coast, California, 2004 $35.00
- Candied cherry fruit, baking spices and a smooth mouthfeel are balanced by firm tannins. Enjoy this classic Merlot with a wide range of grilled meats and spicy vegetable dishes.
- Columbia Crest, "Grand Estates", Washington, 2004 $28.00
- This complex artisan wine is produced using various barrel types and varietals to offer classic Merlot spice, ripe cherry fruit, and cocoa aromatics which persist on the palate. The balance of wood and black fruits creates a velvety, seductive finish.
