Archive: USA: California: Merlot
Artesa 1997 Merlot Napa Valley ($24). Layers of bright red cherry and berry fruits are tasty and accented with herbs and a bit of espresso on the generous finish. Drink now and over the next two or three years. (Weekend Wine, 02/01)
Beaulieu Vineyards
2003 Merlot Napa Valley ($18). A surprise tasting favorite, with pretty plum and red berry flavors that are rich but not over the top. With supple tannins and spicy anise accents. So drinkable! Ready to drink now and over the next year or two. (Winery Spotlight 02/06)
2003 Merlot California Coastal Estates ($11). Appealingly tart red berry flavors and aromas are balanced by the smooth mouthfeel and tannins, picking up cinnamon, plum and mocha through the finish. Ready to drink now. (Winery Spotlight 02/06)
1998 Merlot Napa Valley ($17) – Certainly not a “big red” wine, nor one with heavy fruit. A bit earthy, with a mild cherry and oak finish. (Weekend Wine, 08/01)
Benziger
1999 Merlot Sonoma County ($19). Not terribly crazy about this wine — it seemed almost over-ripe and muddled. Same for the finish. Ready to drink now. (Weekend Wine, 08/02)
1998 Merlot Sonoma County ($17). Bright red cherry and berry fruit are complimented by oak and spice accents here. Tannins are nicely tamed at this point, making it drinkable now and over the next few years. Would be a perfect match to hearty stews and braised meats. (Weekend Wine, 01/01)
Beringer
2005 Merlot Napa Valley ($20). If you’re looking for a rich, smooth Merlot that will work at virtually any red wine moment, you could hardly do better than this. With lush cherry and blueberry flavors that pick up milk chocolate, coffee bean and baking spices through the long finish. Ready to drink now and over the next three or four years. (Picks & Nibbles 12/07)
2004 Merlot Napa Valley Howell Mountain Bancroft Ranch ($75). This vintage is concentrated, deeply colored and intense, with aromatic red cherry and plum fruit that finds a nice balance between tangy and smooth. Long finish picks up rich coffee, cedar and spices along the way. Very nice now and over the next five-plus years. Locate this wine online or in your area. (Picks & Nibbles 04/08)
2002 Merlot California Founders’ Estate ($11). We taste a lot of inexpensive wines — always looking for bargains that surprise us with quality. Here’s one! Easy to like, with its smooth red cherry and sweet black plum fruit flavors that are laced with toasty vanilla and soft spices. Ready to drink now. (Weekend Wine 10/05)
2000 Merlot Howell Mountain Bancroft Ranch Private Reserve ($50). Full-bodied and rich, with aromatic exotic spices lacing concentrated black currant and plum flavors, with generous waves of cocoa, mint and spicy oak. Ready to drink now and over the next five or six years. (Splurge Wine, 02/05)
1999 Merlot Howell Mountain Bancroft Ranch Private Reserve ($75). What we wish every Merlot could be, but reluctantly accept that they just aren’t – this is an intensely pretty wine. Smooth, mouth-filling red berry, blueberry and plum fruit flavors are laced with cinnamon stick, mint and sweet tobacco notes. Finishes focused and delicious. Ready to drink now and over the next five or six years. (Richard’s Picks 08/04)
2001 Merlot California Founders’ Estate ($12). Appealing, understated bouquet includes sweet black cherry and plum and warm spices. Ripe, dense black cherry fruit flavors are accented with espresso bean and generous cedar notes. Ready to drink now and over the next couple of years. (Bargain Wine, 04/04)
2000 Merlot Napa Valley Appellation Collection ($19). Roasted coffee, ripe red cherry, blueberry and anise aromas and flavors gain intensity and richness through the finish, picking up freshly grated nutmeg and toast along the way. Nice complexity. Ready to drink now and over the next three years. (Weekend Wine, 09/03)
Bernardus 1997 Merlot Carmel Valley ($38). Disappointing — especially at this price. Light to medium-bodied, with understated fruit battling mineral and earth flavors. Short finish. Not my cup of tea! (Weekend Wine, 12/01)
Bianchi 2004 Merlot Paso Robles Signature Selection ($18). Concentrated, mouthwatering red cherry aromas and flavors pick up toasty vanilla and baking spices on the generous finish. Silky mouthfeel with firm tannins below the surface. Ready to drink now and over the next two or three years. (Weekend Wine 08/07)
Blackstone 2006 Merlot California ($12). Easily my favorite of the three Blackstone wines I sampled recently, this is a perfectly acceptable quaffing red, with smooth plum and cherry, some toast and baking spices. Soft, smooth, easy. Ready to drink now. Locate this wine online or in your area. (2009-03-16)
Bonterra 1997 Merlot Mendocino County ($16). Wild berry and cherry fruit is accented with fennel and herbs, smoothing out a bit and turning riper on the finish. Ready to drink now. (Weekend Wine, 06/01)
Buena Vista
2004 Merlot Carneros ($21). Roasted coffee notes accent plush red cherry and currant fruit, with toasty vanilla emerging on the generous finish. Very nice. Ready to drink now and over the next couple of years. (Weekend Wine 10/07)
2003 Merlot Carneros ($21). Delicious, with focused blackberry and currant aromas and flavors laced with nutmeg, vanilla, smoke and toasty oak flavors that linger on the elegant finish. Appealing balance between tannic structure and bright fruit. Ready to drink now and over the next three or four years. (Wine Skinny Best 02/07)
Burgess Cellars 1998 Merlot Napa Valley ($29). Rich and supple, with a pronounced bouquet and rich, almost sweet fruit, this Merlot is quite robust. Featuring flavors like black cherry and berry fruit and plenty of herbal notes, it paired beautifully with tender rosemary skewered quail. The wine is drinking wonderfully now, and should age well for the next four or five years. (Weekend Wine, 02/01)
Canoe Ridge
2003 Merlot Columbia Valley ($25). Nice — easy to like, with the same elegant brightness and acidity that the others show. With toasty coffee aromas that introduce pretty plum flavors, along with baking spices and an appealing earthy touch. Finishes focused and clean. Ready to drink now and over the next couple of years. (Winery Spotlight 10/06)
2003 Merlot Columbia Valley Reserve ($45). Really delicious, with elegant black plum and bery fruit layered with black olive, cinnamon, clove and toast. Nice balance between silky and savory, with a long, rich finish that begs for another sip. Ready to drink now and over the next five or six years. (Winery Spotlight 10/06)
2002 Merlot Columbia Valley ($20). Very pretty, with well-structured red berry and cherry fruit, bittersweet chocolate, spice and toasty oak aromas and flavors on a velvety frame. Long, rich finish. Ready to drink now and over the next couple of years. (Weekend Wine 08/05)
Canyon Road 2004 Merlot California ($10). Not overly complex, but darn tasty, with complex-ish aromas and flavors that include black cherry, currant, black olive, warm spices, and a ripe, blueberry pie finish. Ready to drink now. (Richard’s Picks 02/07)
Carmenet
2001 Merlot California Cellar Selection ($9). Nice overall package, with juicy red cherry, blueberry, light cedar and herbal notes. Smooth finish picks up a subtle caramel note. Good example of an effort to make a balanced wine, even at this price point. Ready to drink now. (Weekend Wine, 02/04)
2001 Merlot Sonoma County ($20). Spicy red berry fruit with subtle white peppercorn notes. Lingering finish gains intensity and ripeness, with a sweet cherry vanilla note at the end. Ready to drink now and over the next couple of years. (Winery Spotlight, 12/03)
2000 Merlot California Cellar Selection ($8). New line from Carmenet offers loads of ripe, fruit-forward flavor, including spicy blueberry and raspberry fruit and plenty of sweet, creamy vanilla oak tones. Not overly complex, but pretty darn tasty, especially at this price! Ready to drink now. (Weekend Wine, 05/03)
Cellar No. 8
2008 Merlot California ($10). Medium-bodied, smooth red berry and cherry fruit, with dashes of vanilla and toast. Ready to drink now. Locate this wine online or in your area. (2011-06-01)
2005 Merlot California ($10). Tangy red berry and cherry flavors are laced with touches of vanilla, coffee bean and toasty oak. Finishes dry. Ready to drink now. (Bargain Wine 10/07)
2004 Merlot California ($10). Moderate red cherry and plum flavors are accented with generous vanilla, coffee and warm spices. Nothing complex, but easy to pair with casual meals. Ready to drink now. (Bargain Wine 04/07)
2003 Merlot California ($10). Easy to like, with smooth red berry and cherry fruit, finishing with mouthwatering toasty vanilla and cream. (Wine Tasting 04/06)
Century Cellars 2005 Merlot California ($6). Made by BV, this wine offers entry level but tasty strawberry and red cherry fruit that stays juicy through the smooth, light finish. (And it never gets cough medicine syrupy, which is more than we can say for lots of Merlots costing several times as much!) Ready to drink now. Locate this wine online or in your area. (Picks & Nibbles 05/08)
Chalone 2003 Merlot Monterey County ($15). A lot of wine for the money, with smooth red berry, toasty oak, creamy vanilla and an appealing array of herbal notes. Medium- to full-bodied. With a lush, lingering finish. Ready to drink now and over the next couple of years. (Wine Tasting 04/06)
Charles Creek 2001 Merlot Sonoma County/Napa County Miradero ($22). Smooth and elegant, with black and red berry fruit accented with sweet vanilla oak, milk chocolate and light herbal notes. A pretty, medium-bodied wine. Ready to drink now and over the next three years. (Weekend Wine, 09/03)
Chateau Souverain
2002 Merlot Alexander Valley ($18). Sweet vanilla and spice aromas lace dried red cherry and bright red berry fruit. Nice palate weight — lively and appealing. With a focused finish that includes a burst of warm baking spices at the tail end. Very nice overall package and value. Ready to drink now and over the next 2-3 years. (Weekend Wine 04/05)
1999 Merlot Alexander Valley ($17). Full bodied and bursting with rich, ripe fruit accented with cinnamon, dark chocolate, and anise. Very nice structure and oak shadings that should age beautifully. Drink now and over the next six or seven years. (Weekend Wine, 06/02)
Chateau St. Jean
2003 Merlot California ($15). Juicy red cherry and blackberry flavors are deftly laced with chocolate, smooth spices and toasty oak. Ready to drink now. (Weekend wine 01/06)
2002 Merlot California ($15). Pretty, medium-bodied black plum and cherry fruit flavors are laced with warm spices, a touch of cedar and vanilla bean. Ready to drink now. (Weekend Wine 01/05)
2001 Merlot Sonoma County ($25). Vanilla, wild blueberry and cherry jam aromas and flavors are ripe and full-bodied, picking up a dash of toasted whole spice on the opulent finish. Ready to drink now and over the next two or three years. (Weekend Wine, 07/04)
1999 Merlot Sonoma County ($25). A delicious, full-bodied wine, with good aging potential possibly justifying the slightly high price tag. Layers of concentrated raspberry and blackberry fruit are accented with tobacco, black pepper, and earthy notes. Beautifully balanced. Lingering finish. Would be a lovely choice to an elegant meal. Ready to drink now and over the next six or seven years. (Weekend Wine, 01/02)
Chumeia
2003 Merlot California ($13). Nice! Great value, with balance and finesse not usually seen at this price – particularly in a Merlot. Smooth black plum and berry flavors are laced with restrained spices, vanilla and toasty oak. Focused through the finish. Ready to drink now and over the next 3-4 years. (Wine Tasting 04/06)
2002 Merlot California Simpson Vineyard ($12). Aromatic eucalyptus continues on the palate, accenting smooth red plum and strawberry fruit. Finishes with cinnamon and toasty oak. Ready to drink now. (Robyn’s Picks 12/04)
Clos du Bois
2007 Merlot Alexander Valley Sonoma Reserve ($22). Rich and smooth, with plush toast and spice accents to the black cherry and berry flavors. Supple finish. Ready to drink now. Locate this wine online or in your area. (2011-12-14)
2007 Merlot North Coast ($15). This one was a nice surprise, with rich red cherry and a respectably complex finish — currant, tobacco and cigar box notes mingling with toast. Try with a pre-dinner nibble like toasted pumpernickel slathered with herb-bathed chevre. Ready to drink now. Locate this wine online or in your area. (2010-08-26)
Clos Du Val
2004 Merlot Napa Valley ($26). Enticing exotic spices mingle with lush, concentrated blackberry and plum flavors, picking up dried lavender and herbs on the full-bodied, but smooth finish. Easy to fall for. Drink now and over the next four or five years. (Weekend Wine 03/07)
2002 Merlot Napa Valley ($25). Black cherry and berry fruit flavors are smooth and lush, with soft tannins framing black pepper and sweet, toasty oak accents. Medium-bodied with a balanced, focused finish. Ready to drink now. (Richard’s Picks 06/05)
Coastline Cellars 2008 Merlot Paso Robles ($10). A new-ish line from Adler Fels Winery, the Merlot entry include a healthy dose of Syrah (along with a mix of other red varietals), and the result is smooth and concentrated, with juicy red berry, tart cherry, aromatic baking spices and touches of toast and vanilla that linger on the moderate finish. Nice job, especially at this price. Ready to drink now. Locate this wine online or in your area. (2011-05-13)
Concannon
2008 Merlot Central Coast ($10). Soft, ripe and plummy, with red cherry, spice and toasty oak emerging through the smooth finish. Ready to drink now. Locate this wine online or in your area. (2011-09-29)
2004 Merlot Central Coast ($10). Aromatic, smooth red cherry and raspberry flavors stay soft and supple through the moderate finish. Easy to pair with food – a nice everyday red. Ready to drink now. (Richard’s Picks 02/07)
Cuvaison 1999 Merlot Napa Valley Carneros ($29). Waves of sweet, ripe black and red berry fruit on the bouquet and palate are accented with rosemary, clove, chocolate, and delicate floral notes. A lush, ripe style with a lingering finish. Ready to drink now and over the next four or five years. (Weekend Wine, 03/03)
Dancing Bull 2004 Merlot California ($12). Clean and fruity, with black cherry, cola and vanilla flavors that pick up a touch of spice on the moderate finish. A good burger wine, at a good burger wine price! Ready to drink now. (Bargain Wine 10/06)
Deerfield Ranch
2000 Merlot Russian River Valley Russian River Vineyards ($30). Appealing bouquet of wild blackberry laced with herbs introduces medium-bodied red cherry and berry fruit, new oak, and freshly grated nutmeg. Nice acidity for people who shy away from overly ripe wines! Moderate finish stays fruity and slightly tart. Ready to drink now and over the next five years. (Winery Spotlight, 02/05)
2000 Merlot Clear Lake Roumiguiere Vineyard ($24). Delicate minty notes mingle with oak overtones on the bouquet. Deep red cherry and berry fruit flavors with herbal and bittersweet chocolate notes. Powerful acidic structure and bone dry tannins – made in a “Cabernet style.” Nicely balanced. Very good now and over the next four to six years. Perfect with a great steak! (Weekend Wine, 05/03)
1999 Merlot Russian River Valley Russian River Vineyards ($35). Rich and full-bodied with waves of black cherry, plum, and currant fruit. Spicy, toasty oak is well-integrated and smooth. Milk chocolate and leather notes are delicious. Ready to drink now and over the next year or two. (Robyn’s Picks 04/02)
Dry Creek Vineyards 1999 Merlot Sonoma County ($18). Medium to light-bodied, offering red cherry, vanilla, and slight milk chocolate on the finish. Smooth and easy to drink, if not exceptional. Ready to drink now. (Weekend Wine, 01/03)
Duckhorn Vineyards
2001 Merlot Napa Valley Three Palms Vineyard ($78). Waves of aromatic, concentrated black currant, plum, cedar, espresso, tobacco, and nicely integrated spicy oak. Stays focused and intense through the generous finish. Delicious now and over the next four or five years. (Weekend Wine 06/05)
1997 Merlot Napa Valley ($36). This is a solid Merlot — full of earthy body and spice. Mouthwatering black currant and plum notes are backed up by a hint of fennel that is a great contrast. Very oaky and tannic at this point, but definitely drinkable. Should be fantastic in about five years. (Robyn’s Picks, 08/00)
EOS Estate 1998 Merlot Paso Robles ($20). Medium-bodied and fruity, with smooth cherry and spicy oak. The floral bouquet is appealing. The finish is generous, turning slightly chocolaty. Ready to drink now and over the next couple of years. (Weekend Wine, 10/01)
Fetzer
2001 Merlot Sonoma County Barrel Select ($14). Spicy cherry and vanilla notes on the bouquet introduce medium-bodied, ripe red cherry accented with plum jam, briar, soft spices and vanilla oak. Finish lingers nicely. Ready to drink now and over the next couple of years. (Weekend Wine, 09/03)
1998 Merlot Sonoma County Barrel Select ($13). Surprised? Don’t be. Fetzer has been moving into premium wines for years now, and this Merlot is an outstanding example of why you should give Fetzer some attention these days. Rich ripe black cherry and chocolate flavors, accented with a crisp, briary, herb note combine for a smooth, tasty Merlot. Ready now and should age nicely for three or four years. (Robyn’s Picks, 04/01)
Fife 1999 Merlot Napa Valley ($28). This is another big, tannic red from Fife. Definitely not one of those quaffable, easy Merlots. Densely flavorful, packing full-bodied cherry and dark plum fruit on a tannic, oaky frame. Rich finish. Ready to drink now and over the next three years. (Weekend Wine 02/02)
Firestone 1997 Merlot Santa Ynez Valley ($15) – This wine features a nice soft berry flavor with a hint of mint and medium-soft tannins. The finish is smooth, though not overly long. (Weekend Wine, 10/00)
Flora Springs
2000 Merlot Napa Valley ($22). I thoroughly enjoyed this wine! Delicious ripe berry fruit with smooth plum and plenty of spice, nicely layered and balanced, with integrated oak. Stays lush and delicious straight through to the finish. Wonderful with an array of artisan sheep’s milk cheeses. Ready to drink now and over the next two or three years. (Weekend Wine, 08/02)
1999 Merlot Napa Valley ($22). Well built but smooth, with ripe fruit and sophisticated toasty vanilla oak. Lovely finish. Ready to drink now and over the next four years. (Weekend Wine, 11/01)
Forest Glen 1999 Oak Barrel Selection California Merlot ($9). Red cherry, berries, and a touch of ripe plum are accented with just a hint of vanilla oak. Soft and round and ready to drink. (ETFOFW, 08/01)
Forest Ville 1998 Merlot California ($7). Unexpected richness of flavor was a very nice surprise at this price. Opens up after about twenty or so minutes breathing time (breathing time? at $7!). Good fruit, medium-bodied, strong flavors, nice finish — hard to ask for more (did I mention the $7?). Think hamburgers, pastas, roasts. (Weekend Wine, 06/00)
Franciscan Oakville Estate
2005 Merlot Napa Valley ($22). Smooth but intense, with concentrated black plum and berry fruit, touches of aromatic smoky oak, and herbal notes that linger on the full, fruity finish. Ready to drink now and over the next two or three years. Locate this wine online or in your area. (2009-05-11)
2000 Merlot Napa Valley ($22). Delicious concentrated cherry and berry fruit are the stars, with appealing herbal, oak, and cinnamon notes. Good structure; plenty of tannins. Ready to drink now and over the next four or five years. (Weekend Wine, 08/02)
Freemark Abbey
2009 Merlot Napa Valley ($30). Bright and supple and brimming with pretty red cherry and raspberry fruit that is layered with fresh herbal notes, as well as savory spices and cedar notes. Concentrated and intense through the finish. Lovely now but should age nicely for another 3-5 years. Locate this wine online or in your area. (2012-03-31)
2008 Merlot Napa Valley ($30). Exceptional for its layers of rich, deep fruit flavors — cherry, plum, blackberry, blueberry — that play off an array of interesting accents, including ginger, clove, vanilla, fresh herbs and light cedar notes. With a long, plush finish. Ready to drink now but should age beautifully for 5+ years. Locate this wine online or in your area. (2011-09-02)
2007 Merlot Napa Valley ($25). Intense, bright, flavorful blackberry, black cherry and juicy plum aromas and flavors are accented with aromatic cedar, whole spices and vanilla notes before streamlining into a dry, smooth finish. Ready to drink now and over the next 4-5 years. Locate this wine online or in your area. (2010-08-20)
Frei Brothers Reserve
2002 Merlot Dry Creek Valley ($20). Ripe red cherry and raspberry aromas and flavors are medium-bodied and laced with mint and warm spices, picking up a rich caramel note on the finish. Easy to like and ready to drink now. (Weekend Wine, 07/04)
2001 Merlot Dry Creek Valley ($20). Lots of ripe, rich, fleshy fruit and plenty of tannins combine to make a full-bodied wine. Red cherry and berry fruit pick up mocha and vanilla oak on the generous finish. Ready to drink now and over the next three years. (Weekend Wine, 05/03)
2000 Merlot Dry Creek Valley ($17). Medium-bodied, featuring spicy cherry and wild berry fruit on the nose and palate, with light oak and creamy vanilla on the finish. Definitely a fruit-driven style. Even better with food, it can be successfully paired with a wide variety of dishes. Ready to drink now and over the next three or four years. (Winery Spotlight, 02/02)
1999 Merlot Sonoma County North Coast ($15). Medium-bodied with tasty red cherry and dark plum fruit accented with toasted vanilla oak and an appealing touch of earthiness. Thoroughly enjoyable (and excellent with grilled salmon, by the way!). Ready to drink now and over the next year or two. (Weekend Wine, 04/01)
Frog’s Leap 2001 Merlot Napa Valley ($30). Elegant red fruit aromas and flavors — raspberry, plum, cherry — mingle effortlessly with sweet tobacco, coffee and mineral. Maintains bright acidity throughout. Lovely. Tempting now and over the next three or four years. (Weekend Wine, 07/04)
Gallo Family Vineyards / Gallo of Sonoma
2005 Merlot Sonoma County Sonoma Reserve ($15). Easy and smooth, with ripe blackberry and blueberry jam laced with toasty vanilla and a touch of spice. Ready to drink now. Worked really well on home movie night, with a big bowl of salty-buttery popcorn and an array of chocolate candies. (Weekend Wine 03/08)
2002 Merlot Merlot Sonoma County ($11). Medium- to light-bodied, with jammy blackberry fruit accented with cedar and smoke. Lacking in complexity but quaffable. Ready to drink now. (Richard’s Picks, 12/04)
1998 Merlot Sonoma County ($11). Heck of a deal on an easy to like wine. Black currant and berry fruit mingle with touches of mocha and gentle oak on the solid finish. Ready to drink now, but will also age nicely for four or five years. (Weekend Wine, 01/01)
Geyser Peak
1999 Merlot Sonoma County ($17). Red cherry fruit almost gets lost in the herbal and pronounced oak flavors which completely take over on the finish. Ready to drink now. (Weekend Wine, 08/02)
1998 Merlot Sonoma County ($17). Velvety smooth, this wine features an intoxicating bouquet of spicy red cherry that introduces the ripe red fruit, mocha and oak on the palate. Firm, lingering finish. Ready to drink now and over the next three years. (Winery Spotlight, 04/01)
Ghost Pines 2005 Merlot Napa County-Sonoma County ($23). It offers fresh, concentrated blackberry and cherry fruit laced with anise, orange rind, clove and sweet, toasty oak — all on a smooth, ripe, full-bodied frame. Nice finish, too. Ready to drink now. Locate this wine online or in your area. (Picks & Nibbles 05/08)
Glass Mountain 2001 Merlot California ($8). Rich, smoky vanilla scented red cherry and blackberry are quite nice, especially at this price point. Ends with a rolling wave of vanillin oak. From Markham. Ready to drink now. (Weekend Wine 02/05)
Glen Ellen 2008 Merlot California Proprietor’s Reserve ($6). Very light bodied, but otherwise quite drinkable. With bright red cherry flavors picking up light accents of herbal notes through the rather brief finish. Ready to drink now. Locate this wine online or in your area. (2011-05-20)
Gnarly Head 2005 Merlot California ($12). Perfect BBQ wine, with ripe, jammy red fruit, spicy oak and vanilla notes — and a jammy finish. Ready to drink now. (Weekend Wine 07/08) Locate this wine online or in your area.
Greenwood Ridge 2006 Merlot Mendocino Ridge ($27). Ripe and smooth, with intense cherry and blackberry character laced with rich chocolate and appealing herbal notes. Shows a bit of grip on the otherwise supple finish. Ready to drink now and over the next 3-4 years. Locate this wine online or in your area. (2010-02-17)
Grgich Hills
2007 Merlot Napa Valley ($42). Very nice, with pretty but concentrated blackberry, plum and cherry notes and lots of smooth, elegant accents – spice, toast, sweet tobacco, floral, chocolate. Plush and smooth. Matched up nicely with a mushroom-intensive rice dish. Ready to drink now and over the next 3-5 years. Locate this wine online or in your area. (2012-03-31)
2004 Merlot Napa Valley Estate Grown ($40) the other evening. It offers sleek, tightly wound blackberry and blueberry fruit flavors with touches of cedar, cinnamon and other brown spice notes that linger on the concentrated, smooth finish. It benefited from some time in the glass — smoothing out even more. Drink now and over the next four to six years. We paired it with an array of breads and cheeses and olives for a simple winter meal. (Picks & Nibbles 01/08)
2003 Merlot Napa Valley Estate Grown ($38). Sleek blackberry and cherry flavors and aromas are accented with heady cedar, clove and nutmeg. Really opens up with some decanting, and includes a long, lush finish. Tempting now and over the next seven or eight years. (Weekend Wine 03/07)
Hogue 2001 Merlot Columbia Valley Genesis ($17). Rich and intense, with concentrated black plum and cherry fruit layered with black olive, cedar, black pepper and sweet clove flavors. A full-bodied, tannic Merlot. Lots of wine for the money! Ready to drink now and over the next four or five years. (Weekend Wine 01/05)
Hourglass Winery 2007 Merlot Napa Valley Blueline Vineyard ($75). Supple blueberry and black cherry aromas and flavors, with a slightly floral note mingling with touches of rich cocoa, strawberry jam and toasty vanilla, with a long, smooth finish. Ready to drink now and over the next 4-5 years. Locate this wine online or in your area. (2010-07-01)
Indigo Hills 1999 Merlot San Francisco Bay ($16). Concentrated red fruit and an appealing herbal note are featured in this surprisingly good and well structured Merlot. Medium to full bodied, with good tannins and a lingering finish. Ready to drink now and over the next two or three years. (Weekend Wine, 08/01)
Ironstone 1997 Merlot California ($9). Bright berry fruit is appealing, if a little simple. Low tannins and light- to medium-bodied. Ready to drink now. Was a little overwhelmed by the sharp cheddar — probably a milder cheddar would have been a better pairing. (Weekend Wine, 07/01)
Irony 2004 Merlot Napa Valley ($16). Lipsmacking, smooth red cherry and plum flavors, with appealing touches of briar and clove. Never gets overripe or syrupy — a nice surprise for a Merlot at this price! Ready to drink now and over the next couple of years. (Winery Spotlight 04/08) Locate this wine online or in your area.
Kendall-Jackson
2007 Merlot Sonoma County Vintner’s Reserve ($19). Very nice, actually, with layers of deep plum and black cherry, dried herbs and sweet, exotic spices that linger on a sophisticated, complex finish. Ready to drink now and over the next 2-3 years. Locate this wine online or in your area. (2010-08-26)
2006 Merlot Sonoma-Napa-Mendocino Vintner’s Reserve ($19). Smooth and spicy, with plum and black currant fruit laced with aromatic baking spices, cedar and toast notes that linger on the finish. Easy to like. Ready to drink now and over next year or two. Locate this wine online or in your area. (2009-11-16)
2006 Merlot Sonoma County Grand Reserve ($28). Nothing wimpy about this Merlot, with its intense black fruit — berry, currant, cherry — accented with cedar and cocoa notes that add depth and a touch of grip to this otherwise smooth wine. Long, complex finish. Ready to drink now and over the next three or four years. Locate this wine online or in your area. (2009-08-30)
Kenwood 1998 Merlot Sonoma County ($20). Loved the herbal and smoke accents to the concentrated blackberry fruit here. Plenty of body and tannic backbone, but it’s well-integrated and approachable now. Ready to drink now and over the next couple of years. It matched very well with spinach-stuffed chicken breasts in a rich rosemary cream sauce. (Weekend Wine, 07/01)
Koves-Newlan
2000 Merlot Napa Valley ($23). Soulful smoke, leather, and earth aromas accent dark plum and cherry fruit flavors, finishing with toasted oak and espresso notes. Lush and appealing. Ready to drink now and over the next three or four years. (Weekend Wine, 07/04)
1999 Merlot Napa Valley ($19). Smooth, ripe cherry and berry fruit is layered with cracked black pepper and spicy, toasty oak. Medium- to full-bodied with good tannic structure. Ready to drink now and over the next three or four years. (Weekend Wine, 06/03)
Le Vin Vineyards 2000 Merlot Mendocino County ($28). Powerful bouquet includes blackberry jam and roasted coffee notes. Palate is softer and lighter than nose, with moderate black cherry and berry fruit along with touches of milk chocolate and light spices. Ready to drink now. (Robyn’s Picks, 06/04)
Liparita 1999 Merlot Napa Valley ($28). An unusual wine, with a funky earthy edge on the bouquet and palate — but pleasantly so. With ripe red plum and red berry fruit and sweet vanilla oak. Perfect to pair with stews or shortribs. Ready to drink now. (Weekend Wine, 01/04)
Luna Vineyards 2005 Merlot Napa Valley($34). I liked this one for its compexity and masculine style. No blousy, soft vanilla here. Rather, there’s nice concentration to the plum and black cherry fruit, with accents of tobacco, dried herbs and baking spices. Picks up a dusty note on the long finish. Good structure. Ready to drink now and over the next four or five years. Locate this wine online or in your area. (2009-02-04)
Maple Creek 2001 Merlot Yorkville Highlands-Mendocino County Artevino ($N/A). Light sweet red cherry fruit and eucalyptus aromas and flavors, with lots of milk chocolate and cherry cola notes. Appealing. Ready to drink now. (Robyn’s Picks, 06/04)
Marcelina Vineyards 1999 Merlot Napa Valley ($30). This is the first Merlot from Marcelina, so we were excited to try it! It is full-bodied and concentrated — this is an impressive wine. Ripe berry fruit is layered with leather and game notes, ending in a spicy generous finish. A little cellaring certainly wouldn’t hurt this wine, although it opened up beautifully after a little breathing time. Very good now, and will continue to improve for the next three or four years. We enjoyed it tremendously with grilled chicken and steak. (Weekend Wine, 07/01)
Markham
2005 Merlot Napa Valley ($25). Smooth red cherry and raspberry aromas and flavors are laced with coffee bean, toast and light herbal notes, coming together on a polished finish. Ready to drink now and over the next couple of years. (Weekend Wine 07/08) Locate this wine online or in your area.
2002 Merlot Napa Valley ($22). Ripe but not overblown, with integrated layers of aromatic red berry, tobacco, clove, toasty vanilla and cedar, with a focused, complex finish. Very nice. Ready to drink now and over the next three or four years. Steak, please! (Weekend Wine 05/06)
Matanzas Creek
2006 Merlot Sonoma County Bennett Valley Jackson Park Vineyard ($49). Fruit-driven and concentrated, with ripe plum, blackberry and black cherry fruit layered with pronounced spicy, vanillin oak along with touches of mocha, cola and toast. A big, structured Merlot. Ready to drink now (though a little decanting wouldn’t be a bad idea) and over the next 4-5 years. Locate this wine online or in your area. (2010-07-08)
2006 Merlot Sonoma County Bennett Valley ($35). Ripe and smooth, with pretty herbal and spice aromas accenting deep black plum and berry fruit that picks up coffee, vanilla and toasty oak through the lingering, plush finish. Ready to drink now and over the next couple of years. Locate this wine online or in your area. (2010-06-18)
2005 Merlot Sonoma County Bennett Valley ($35). Rich and smooth, offering spice-laced blackberry and cherry flavors, with smoky, toasty oak and brown spices lingering on the supple finish. Ready to drink now and over the next three or four years. Locate this wine online or in your area. (2009-09-07)
Mayacamas
2002 Merlot Napa Valley ($35). What Merlot can be — smooth and supple, with feminine, perfumed red berry and cherry flavors that pick up rich spices through the lingering finish. Tempting now and should age beautifully for at least seven or eight years. (Splurge Wine 10/07)
2001 Merlot Napa Valley ($35). Concentrated black cherry, smoke, sweet tobacco and walnut aromas and flavors unfold and evolve nicely from sleek finish to lingering finish. Full-bodied and structured without being overripe. Ready to drink now and over the next seven or eight years. (Weekend Wine 01/07)
2000 Merlot Napa Valley ($35). Rich, ripe aromas include spicy plum and wild berry fruit. Less effusive in the mouth, but focused, picking up fresh herbs and lead pencil accents. Should age nicely. Needs decanting now. Drink over the next eight years. (Weekend Wine 10/05)
1999 Merlot Napa Valley ($40). As usual with Mayacamas, this wine is a breed apart from the rest. Tightly structured and made for aging, with floral and berry aromas introducing deep blackberry and raspberry flavors integrated with restrained notes of leather and earth. Should continue to evolve nicely in the bottle — best after 2008 through the next seven or eight years. (Weekend Wine, 07/04)
1998 Merlot Napa Valley ($40). Startling for its pure fruit expression, including concentrated red currant and plum flavors, it is laced with an array of elegant accents like mineral, roasted herb, baking spices and fennel. Still quite young, it should continue to evolve in the bottle for at least another five or six years, then drink beautifully for another 5-10 years after that. (Weekend Wine, 12/03)
Meridian
2004 Merlot California ($10). A surprise tasting favorite, with delicious red plum and berry flavors accented with spicy vanilla, a touch of smooth chocolate and toasty oak. Stays focused through the medium-bodied finish. Ready to drink now. (Richard’s Picks 02/07)
2002 Merlot California ($10).Smooth blackberry and milk chocolate flavors are accented with spicy cola and fresh herbs. Enjoy now! (Wine Tasting 04/06)
Merryvale
2006 Merlot Napa Valley Starmont ($24). Lush, smooth, and bursting with rich black cherry and berry aromas and flavors, picking up spicy dark chocolate and roasted herb notes on the finish, where it shows a bit of grip. Ready to drink now. Locate this wine online or in your area. (2009-08-16)
2004 Merlot Napa Valley Stamont ($24). Nicely balanced red berry, cherry, sage, rich chocolate and toasty vanilla fold together on a focused, medium-bodied finish that shows a bit of grip. Ready to drink now. (Weekend Wine 10/07)
2001 Merlot Carneros Beckstoffer Vineyards Las Amigas Vineyard ($39). Blousy aromas of ripe plum and cherry fruit carry through to the palate, along with dried herbs and licorice notes. Medium bodied. Finishes long and focused with a hint of espresso. Opened up nicely after an hour or so. Drink now and over the next three or four years. (Label Art 06/05)
Mill Creek Vineyards 1998 Merlot Dry Creek Valley ($18.50). Spicy and tightly wound at first, this wine opens up to display lovely plum and black cherry fruit with tasty vanilla oak and more spice on the finish. A good example of a high quality Merlot under $20. Ready to drink now and over the next couple of years. (Weekend Wine, 05/01)
Mirassou 2001 Merlot California ($11). Sweet red cherry, vanilla and floral aromas and flavors. Simple but tasty. Ready to drink now. (Weekend Wine 07/04)
Monthaven 2008 Merlot Central Coast ($24, 3L Octavin). Smooth, appealing red berry, cherry and blueberry flavors are lush and ripe without tipping into cloying, cough-syrupy or tinny — nicely done. A light spice note lingers on the finish. Not especially complex, but certainly drinkable. Ready to drink now. (2011-02-09)
Murphy-Goode
2007 Merlot Alexander Valley ($20). Full-bodied and offering plenty of structure to stand up to grilled steaks and chops. With rich blackberry and cherry aromas and flavors, with vanilla, clove, mint and peppery oak accents through the finish. Ready to drink now and over the next couple of years. Locate this wine online or in your area. (2010-04-29)
1998 Merlot Alexander Valley ($20). Earthy, with good plum fruit accented with herb and game notes. Ready to drink now and over the next year. (Weekend Wine, 08/01)
Napa Cellars 2007 Merlot Napa Valley ($22). Appealing for the sweet tobacco and baking spice accents to the smooth, lipsmacking red cherry and blueberry flavors, with a lush, lingering finish. Ready to drink now and over the next couple of years. Locate this wine online or in your area. (2010-07-19)
Napa Ridge 1998 Merlot Lodi ($10). You heard me, Lodi. Anyway, this is pretty good stuff! Starts full and lively on the palate, bursting with dried cherry, blackberry, and spice. After that, it stops short, but not in a way that is disappointing. Rather, this wine has a clean finish that will appeal to those who are wary of big, tannic reds. This wine could stand up to just about any summer grilling, and would be a nice red choice for barbeques and picnics. (Weekend Wine, 06/00)
Neyers 2002 Merlot Napa Valley Neyers Ranch-Conn Valley ($30). Plummy, with supple layers of black fruit, sweet tobacco, chocolate, mint and toasty oak on a firm but smooth structure. Finishes focused and long. Ready to drink now and over the next three or four years. (Weekend Wine 06/05)
Nickel & Nickel 2000 Merlot Napa Valley Suscol Ranch ($70). Earthy blackberry and black plum fruit flavors and aromas mingle with tobacco, dried herbs and toasty vanilla oak. Plush, velvety mouthfeel with a generously lingering finish. Opulent. Delicious now and over the next five or six years. (Weekend Wine, 03/04)
Novella 2000 Merlot Paso Robles ($11). Concentrated tart red cherry fruit with loads of sweet vanilla and smoky oak. Lingering finish stays sweet/tart. Over the top sweet and ripe, lacking balance. (Weekend Wine, 02/04)
Paso Creek 2005 Merlot Paso Robles ($18). An appealing earthiness (if you like that kind of thing!) supports blackberry and plum fruit, with toasty vanilla and spicy oak notes. Ready to drink now. Would work nicely with something like grilled chicken or roasted pork shoulder. (Weekend Wine 03/08)
Pepperwood Grove 2001 Merlot California ($9). Nicely structured, offering ripe cherry and blackberry fruit, milk chocolate and a dash of earthy spices. Toasty oak on finish. Ready to drink now and over the next year or two. (Weekend Wine 07/04)
Pietra Santa 2004 Merlot Cienega Valley ($15). Spicy black fruits — plum, blackberry, cherry — are laced with aromatic cedar and black pepper. Nice structure at this price. Ready to drink now. (Weekend Wine 07/08) Locate this wine online or in your area.
Provenance
2004 Merlot Napa Valley ($35), Balanced, elegant and food-friendly, with pretty, medium-bodied red cherry fruit laced with sweet tobacco and light spices. Long, complex, evolving finish. Ready to drink now and over the next three or four years. Locate this wine online or in your area. (Picks & Nibbles 06/08)
2003 Merlot Napa Valley ($35). Heady red currant and raspberry aromas and flavors are nicely balanced with fresh herbs and green olives – all on a smooth, lingering finish. Ready to drink now and over the next three or four years. (Richard’s Picks 04/06)
2002 Merlot Beckstoffer Las Amigas Vineyard ($40). Concentrated black cherry and berry fruit is layered with pretty touches of fresh herbs, toast and tobacco. Finishes with a dusting of cocoa. Very good! Ready to drink now and over the next four or five years. (Richard’s Picks 04/06)
2002 Merlot Napa Valley Carneros ($28). A pretty, concentrated wine, offering bright red berry and plum fruit accented with spicy oak and sweet tobacco that linger on the moderate finish. Ready to drink now and over the next four or five years. (Weekend Wine 06/05)
Rabbit Ridge 1998 California Merlot Barrel Cuvee ($8). I had heard good things about this Rabbit Ridge Merlot, and I am happy to report all true, all true. If you like Merlot, you should definitely like this wine. A lively red that was very easy to drink with dewberry and black cherry flavors. This is ready to drink right now, and is one of those no-brainer kinds of wines. Just pop the cork and serve with your favorite on-the-spicy-side foods. (ETFOFW, 06/00)
Raymond
2000 Merlot Napa Valley Reserve ($24). Smooth blackberry fruit mingles with an elegant mix of spice, smoke, oak and herbal notes. Medium to full bodied. Long, supple finish. Ready to drink now and over the next four or five years. (Weekend Wine, 09/03)
1999 Merlot Napa Valley Reserve ($25). Concentrated dark plum fruit is layered with generous herb, green bean, and smoky oak. Needs foods that will stand up to the firm tannic structure and complicated palate. We had terrific results with grilled steaks and a rich potato dish. Drink now and over the next three or four years. (Weekend Wine, 08/02)
Red Rock 2006 Merlot California Reserve ($12) is yet another Gallo label – and a winner. Plush and offering very nice complexity at this price point, with concentrated, medium-bodied blackberry and raspberry fruit layered with touches of cedar, anise and other brown spices and toast that linger on the finish. Nicely done. Ready to drink now. Plus, there’s tons of the stuff available (100,000 cases, to be exact), so stock up! (Weekend Wine 07/08) Locate this wine online or in your area.
Red Truck 2006 Merlot Central Coast ($12). Medium-bodied black cherry and berry aromas and flavors pick up rich chocolate and herbal notes through the finish. Easy to like. Ready to drink now. (Weekend Wine 07/08) Locate this wine online or in your area.
Redwood Creek 2006 Merlot California ($8). If all $8 Merlots were this good, Merlot might not have developed its Sideways rep. Bright red cherry and berry, with chocolate, toast and spice notes on the smooth finish. Easy to like. Ready to drink now. (Weekend Wine 07/08) Locate this wine online or in your area.
RH Phillips
2002 Merlot California Toasted Head ($17). Smooth, sweet red cherry and plum fruit is accented with fresh tobacco and mocha notes. Ready to drink now. (Weekend Wine 12/05)
1998 Merlot Dunnigan Hills ($9). (79% Dunnigan Hills Merlot, 9% California Petite Sirah, 6% Dunnigan Hills Petite Sirah, 3% Lodi Alicante Bouschet, 3% Dunnigan Hills Petite Verdot) I’m coming back around on Merlot (or maybe I’m coming back around on 79% Merlot), in any event, this was a nicely berried and woodsy wine. Made me want to skip to Grandma’s house with basket full of burgers. (ETFOFW, 01/01)
Robert Hall
2005 Merlot Paso Robles ($19). Tightly wound blackberry and cherry flavors pick up briar and tobacco through the firm finish. Needs something like a well-marbled steak to go with! Let it breathe a bit… Ready to drink now and over the next two or three years. (Weekend Wine 08/07)
2004 Merlot Paso Robles ($18). This wine was the surprise hit of the tasting, with everyone admiring its concentration and richness. A “slight peppery nose” introduced blackberry, plum, fig, hints of clove and cinnamon, and a plush finish. Event planner Dame Kathy Lord summed it up best with, “Good red. Smooth. Great.” Ready to drink now and over the next couple of years. (Drinks with Les Dames, 08/06)
2004 Merlot Sonoma County ($19). Concentrated, with intense aromas and bold flavors that include red currant, cherry, mint, spicy vanilla and toasty oak. With a generous finish. Nothing wimpy about this Merlot! Ready to drink now and over the next couple of years. (Winery Spotlight 08/06)
Rombauer Vineyard 1996 Merlot Napa Valley ($25). Zippy but balanced, this Merlot features bright raspberry and blackberry flavors with just the right amount of herb undercurrents. Very nice structure from beginning to end. (Wine Tasting Party, 02/00)
Round Hill 2008 Merlot California ($8). Easily the best under-$10 Merlot I tasted, offering admirable dryness and juicy, smooth red and blue berry fruit flavors laced with light smoke, spice and toast. A perfectly acceptable quaff. Ready to drink now. Locate this wine online or in your area. (2010-08-26)
Rutherford Hill 2003 Merlot Napa Valley ($25). Appealing for its smooth, delicate black cherry and berry flavors that pick up slight touches of milk chocolate and sweet spices, even if it finishes a bit short. Ready to drink now and over the next couple of years. (Weekend Wine 03/07)
Rutherford Ranch
2009 Merlot Napa Valley ($18). Smooth, easy, supple, ripe — with red fruits, warm spices and toasty oak. Ready to drink now. Locate this wine online or in your area. (2012-03-31)
2007 Merlot Napa Valley ($17). This one’s a nice surprise, with smooth, medium-bodied red cherry, blueberry and fresh herbal notes, picking up appealing spice and toasty vanilla on the bright finish. Ready to drink now and over the next couple of years. Locate this wine online or in your area. (2009-11-16)
1999 Merlot Napa Valley ($12). Another nice buy, this wine is a bit more restrained than the Errazuriz, showing medium-intense plum fruit, fennel, spice, and moderate oak. Ready to drink now, but might be even better in a couple of years. (Weekend Wine, 01/02)
Sbragia Family Vineyards
2005 Merlot Dry Creek Valley Home Ranch ($25). Lovely stuff, with delicate floral aromas accenting smooth black cherry and berry fruit, with dusty cocoa and appealing dried herbs that linger on the long finish. Ready to drink now and over the next three or four years. (Weekend Wine 07/08) Locate this wine online or in your area.
2004 Merlot Dry Creek Valley Home Ranch ($25). Aromatic, dusty cocoa laces smooth black cherry and plum flavors, with chocolate and coffee notes on the generous finish. Easy to like. Ready to drink now and over the next couple of years. (Richard’s Picks 06/07)
Sebastiani
1999 Merlot Sonoma County ($17). Opulent flavors and aromas of deep black cherry and berry fruit, tobacco, wet earth and dark spices. Elegant, complex, generous finish. Full-bodied. Ready to drink now and over the next three or four years. (Weekend Wine, 09/03)
1997 Merlot Sonoma County ($18). Medium-bodied with tasty black cherry fruit integrated with vanilla oak and an appealing herbal note. Solid finish. Tannins are approachable now and will continue to smooth out over time. Ready to drink now and over the next five years. (Winery Spotlight, 08/01)
Selby 1997 Merlot Napa Valley ($23). I really liked this wine — the cherry and berry fruit is concentrated and assertive, with anise, oak, and a touch of tobacco. Tannins are still pretty dominant on the finish, but in a couple of years, this wine should open up nicely. Drink now and over the next six or seven years. (Weekend Wine, 05/01)
Seven Peaks 1998 Merlot Central Coast ($15). This is a soft, supple Merlot, featuring red cherry and herb flavors, with a subtle touch of lavender on the bouquet. The velvety texture is quite nice, and the touch of spice on the finish adds interest and length. Ready to drink now and over the next couple of years. (Robyn’s Picks, 04/01)
Shafer 2008 Merlot Napa Valley ($48). Intense and deep, with tightly-wound black plum and blackberry fruit picking up accents of smoke, spiced tea and mineral through the lingering, smooth, complex finish. Ready to drink now and over the next 4-5 years. Locate this wine online or in your area. (2010-07-08)
Simi
2006 Merlot Sonoma County ($19). Smooth and plush, with deep plum and black cherry fruit accented with clove, fresh herbs and mocha notes. Made a lovely pairing for pan roasted veal chops. Ready to drink now and over the next couple of years. Locate this wine online or in your area. (2010-08-26)
2004 Merlot Sonoma County ($20). Cedar and mint accent plum and black cherry fruit, with dusty dark chocolate on the finish, along with a kick of black pepper. Ready to drink now and over the next couple of years. (Winery Spotlight 10/07)
Snob Hill Winery 2002 Merlot North Coast Le Snoot ($12). Moderate spicy cherry aromas and flavors, picking up toasty oak and sweet vanilla on the finish. Easy quaff, nothing complex, but still tasty. Ready to drink now. (Weekend Wine 01/05)
Sonoma Vineyards
2004 Merlot Sonoma County ($15). Plummy, with black currant and cedar accents, picking up smooth chocolate through the medium-bodied finish. Ready to drink now. (Weekend Wine 07/08) Locate this wine online or in your area.
2003 Merlot Sonoma County ($15). Appealing for its plush berry flavors laced with touches of chocolate, baking spices and toast with a moderate, balanced finish. Ready to drink now. (Bargain Wine 08/07)
2002 Merlot Napa Valley ($24). Plush, ripe blackberry and blueberry aromas and flavors are laced with briar, sweet tobacco and lightly toasty oak. Long, focused finish. Ready to drink now and over the next couple of years. (Weekend Wine 08/07)
2000 Merlot Napa Valley ($22). A departure from St. Supery’s “usual” big Merlot, this one is medium-bodied, offering red cherry and berry fruit laced with sweet herb and smoke notes, finishing with lingering vanilla and toasty oak. Ready to drink now. (Weekend Wine, 02/04)
1999 Merlot Napa Valley ($21). Elegant berry and oak aromas introduce a nicely structured wine that features concentrated cherry and blueberry fruit laced with fennel and vanilla oak. Tannins are firm but integrated, making this wine accessible now and over the next three or four years. (Weekend Wine, 01/02)
Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars 1996 Merlot Napa Valley ($29). Very good black currant and raspberry fruit, with a good amount of oak and a hint of tobacco (or maybe I was just wishing for a cigar…). Medium bodied, solid tannins, and a good lingering finish. This wine will be even better with a couple of years of cellaring. It was a great match for the pepper crusted steak with a gorgonzola sauce, served with grilled vegetables and roasted potatoes with rosemary. (Weekend Wine, 09/00)
Stags’ Leap Winery
2004 Merlot Napa Valley ($31). Lovely and supple, with bright red berry and cherry aromas and flavors that stay pretty through the smooth finish and pick up delicate baking spices, dark chocolate, toasty oak and dried herbal notes along the way. Ready to drink now and over the next couple of years. (Weekend Wine 12/07)
2003 Merlot Napa Valley ($31). Lush black cherry and plum fruit is layered with mouth watering chocolate, toasty vanilla, nutmeg and other baking spices that all linger on the generous, smooth finish. Very nice. Ready to drink now and over the next two or three years. (Weekend Wine 03/07)
2001 Merlot Napa Valley Estate Reserve ($50). Cedar and violet and vanilla aromas, deeply colored, with an elegant finish. In between is ripe, plummy fruit, smoke, and serious tannic structure. Tempting now but should age nicely — drink over the next 5-6 years. (Richard’s Picks 04/05)
2001 Merlot Napa Valley ($32). Clove and cinnamon scented black plum fruit flavors make a pretty, medium-bodied, velvety wine, with licorice and chocolate notes on the lingering finish. Very good now and over the next three or four years. (Weekend Wine, 07/04)
Steele Wines 1997 Merlot Clear Lake ($22). This wine is velvety and rich, with a lovely floral bouquet, and smooth plum and black currant fruit on the palate. Very good now and will age beautifully over the next five years. (Weekend Wine, 11/00)
Stephanie
2006 Merlot Napa Valley ($40). Lovely aromas and flavors of rich black cherry mingle with coffee, cedar, baking spices and creme brulee, with a long, evolving, silky finish. Ready to drink now and over the next 3-4 years. Locate this wine online or in your area. (2010-07-08)
2005 Merlot Napa Valley ($40). Deep, complex black plum and cherry aromas and flavors are laced with espresso, dried herbs, dusty chocolate and wet earth accents that fold into a long, intense finish. Could benefit from decanting in the short run. Ready to drink now and over the next 6-8 years. Locate this wine online or in your area. (2008-12-10)
Sterling Vineyards
2005 Merlot Napa Valley Three Palms ($55). A structured, serious wine. Offering concentrated black cherry and currant fruit layered with mineral notes, dusty cocoa and brown spices. Shows some grip on the long finish. Best from 2010-2013. Locate this wine online or in your area. (2009-05-21)2000 Merlot Napa Valley Reserve ($65). Pretty cedar, red fruit and spice aromas introduce a smooth, elegant wine with concentrated red berry and cherry flavors that pick up mocha and toasty oak accents on the finish. Ready to drink now and over the next three years. (Weekend Wine, 03/04) Locate this wine online or in your area.
2004 Merlot Napa Valley Reserve
2004 Merlot Napa Valley Three Palms ($55). Smoky herbs and violet aromas accent jammy red berry and cherry fruit, picking up chocolate, black pepper and a touch of fresh mint on the lipsmacking finish. Ready to drink now and over the next three or four years. (Drinks with Les Dames 06/07) Locate this wine online or in your area.
2003 Merlot Napa Valley ($22). Loved this wine! Bright red berry and cherry aromas and flavors, with a plush, velvety mouthfeel, picking up mocha and cedar through the luscious finish. Ready to drink now and over the next two or three years. (Weekend Wine 08/06) Locate this wine online or in your area.
2000 Merlot Napa Valley Three Palms Vineyard ($50). Medium-bodied, elegant and delicious, with deep black cherry and plum fruit layered with licorice, sage, caramelized vanilla, and dark chocolate notes. Nicely lingering finish. Ready to drink now and over the next three or four years. (Weekend Wine, 05/04) Locate this wine online or in your area.
($65). Distinctive chicory aromas introduce blackberry and cherry fruit, chocolate, clove and other baking spices and a hint of black pepper that linger on the finish. Ready to drink now and over the next three or four years. (Drinks with Les Dames 06/07) Locate this wine online or in your area.
Stone Cellars 2002 Merlot California ($8). Candied cherry vanilla flavors introduce more appealing and smooth plum and cherry fruit along with some warm spice notes, then goes back to the cherry vanilla cola character on the finish. Ready to drink now. (Bargain Wine 02/05) Locate this wine online or in your area.
Stonegate 1998 Merlot Napa Valley ($22). We really liked this wine! Rich and concentrated, with black cherry and plum fruit with appealing smoke, oak, and just a touch of vanilla. Very nice finish. Ready to drink now and over the next four or five years. (Weekend Wine, 08/01)
Swanson
2002 Merlot Oakville ($34). Outstanding stuff, with elegant layers of concentrated, aromatic blackberry, blueberry and currant flavors, layered with mouthwatering spices and mocha accents that are supported by fine-grained tannins. Smooth, lush finish. Ready to drink now and over the next five or six years. (Wine Tasting 04/06)
2001 Merlot Oakville ($30). Nicely balanced, with rich blackberry and red berry fruit laced with smoke, licorice and sweet spices. Supple, velvety mouthfeel; picks up some dry tannins on the lengthy finish. Ready to drink now and over the next three or four years. (Weekend Wine 06/05)
Tangley Oaks 2006 Merlot Napa Valley ($15). Quite light-bodied, but with some bright acidity and red cherry and raspberry character that make it appealing. Minty accents on the finish. Ready to drink now. Locate this wine online or in your area. (2009-06-26)
Turning Leaf
2001 Merlot Coastal Reserve ($10). Red fruit profile, including some tart berry flavors, with nice acidity and structure, picking up a little dark chocolate on the moderate finish. Food friendly and value priced. Ready to drink now. (Weekend Wine, 05/03)
1999 Coastal Reserve Merlot Central Coast ($9). What a merlot should be with black pepper spice and fresh herbal qualities understating ripe raspberry aromas and flavors. Medium bodied with a rich juicy texture and soft tannins. Perfect for a picnic by the lagoon with a lamb and mushroom pesto sandwich. (Look, I don’t ask about Mrs. Thurston Howell III’s sizeable wardrobe for just a three hour tour, and you don’t ask about the lamb). (ETFOFW, 02/01)
Twisted 2007 Merlot California ($8). Like a slice of blueberry pie — with some red cherry mixed in. Lush, smooth, vanilla, just a touch of spice. A good burger wine! Ready to drink now. (2009-08-03) Locate this wine online or in your area.
TwoTone Farm
2003 Merlot California ($10). Nice, especially for the price, with concentrated black cherry, earthy cinnamon, anise and black pepper notes that stay focused through the finish. Easy to like. Ready to drink now. Locate this wine online or in your area. (Wine Tasting 04/06)
2001 Merlot Napa Valley ($15). Raspberry, red cherry, clove, white pepper and a touch of earth dominate the bouquet and palate of this brand-spankin’ new label from two Napa Valley winemakers (Tres Goetting from St. Clement and Danielle Cyrot from Stags’ Leap Winery). Finishes with a focused sweet cherry pie note. Nicely integrated tannins. Very tasty! Ready to drink now and over the next couple of years. (Weekend Wine, 09/03)
Waterstone 1999 Merlot Napa Valley ($18). Appealing leather and red fruit aromas introduce smooth black cherry and ripe berry fruit accented with green olive and generous oak. Stays focused through finish. Distinctive flavor profile and slightly rustic character would pair well with grilled meats. Ready to drink now and over the next couple of years. (Weekend Wine 01/05)
Whitehall Lane 1999 Merlot Napa Valley ($25). Full-bodied but supple and velvety smooth, with bright red cherry and plum fruit laced with lavender and vanillin oak. Lush, focused finish. Includes 10% Cabernet Sauvignon. Ready to drink now and over the next three years. (Richard’s Picks, 04/03)
Wild Horse 2004 Merlot Paso Robles ($20). Nice! Lush, ripe red cherry fruit is laced with warm baking spices, toasty oak, a dash of vanilla and a touch of chocolate. Long, smooth finish. Ready to drink now. (Weekend Wine 01/07)
William Hill
2003 Merlot Napa Valley ($23). Aromatic and juicy, with loads of rich red cherry laced with licorice and touches of spicy, toasty oak. Generous finish. Ready to drink now and over the next couple of years. (Weekend Wine 01/07)
2001 Merlot Napa Valley ($22). A pretty, expressive Merlot, with lush red cherry and berry flavors laced with aromatic cedar, fresh herbs and restrained vanilla oak. Silky and appealing, with dry tannins appearing on the finish. Ready to drink now and over the next two or three years. (Richard’s Picks, 08/05)
Woodbridge
2002 Merlot California ($8). On the simple side, yes, but still appealing. With moderate, soft blackberry and cherry flavors laced with touches of warm spice, dark chocolate and toasty oak. Nothing cloying or candied. Ready to drink now. (Weekend Wine 02/05)
2001 Merlot California ($8). Juicy red cherry and cola aromas and flavors are straightforward and smooth. Not a lot of complexity, but easy to enjoy. Ready to drink now. (Weekend Wine 07/04)
2001 Merlot Lodi Select Vineyard Series Clay Hollow ($11). Black cherry, vanilla and light spice aromas and flavors. Finishes with some creamy milk chocolate and toasty oak notes. Ready to drink now. (Weekend Wine 07/04)
St. Clement
St. Francis 1998 Merlot Sonoma County California Selection ($25). Wonderful concentrated red fruit with appealing anise and oak notes. Generous finish. Ready to drink now and over the next couple of years. (Wine Skinny Cooks, 06/01)
St. Supery
2001 Merlot Napa Valley ($28). Waves of cherry and cedar on nose. Rich, beefy, powerful fruit, with accents that include spicy nutmeg and espresso bean. Long finish. A big wine that begs for hearty meat dishes. Ready to drink now and over the next 3-4 years. (Winery Spotlight, 02/04)
