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WINE
PICKS : MERLOT
By Thom Elkjer
wine editor
TIP: Merlot provides a nice alternative to wine
lovers
looking for a more approachable, fruitier and softer red wine.
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63°F / 17°C
Ideal serving temperature
for MERLOT. |
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CHATEAU ST. JEAN MERLOT
Sonoma County 2001 ($25): goes for
complexity and gets it, with cola, cherry, blueberry, blackberry and red
clay flavors layered into a mouth-pleasing texture; spreads across your
palate, then refocuses at the finish.
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DELICATO MERLOT
California 2003 ($8): Plump aromas and flavors of black
and red plums, with red cherry notes and an earthy under-layer; nice balance,
fine tannins and a bright, refreshing finish all make this wine taste like
it costs a lot more. |
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PALOMA MERLOT
Spring Mountain 2002 ($51): mountain-grown Merlot is
a different animal and here’s proof: plush black cherry and blueberry
flavors stand up to big oak and high alcohol, so decant well before
savoring the warm finish and raw silk texture.
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STERLING MERLOT
Central Coast Vintners Collection 2002 ($13): this
wine shows the bright, juicy side of Merlot, with a touch of coffee in
the aromas, plenty of red cherry and plum flavors, good acidity in the
mid-palate and sweet length.
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Visitor
Favorites:
In Napa Valley
Casual and good, MUSTARD'S GRILL in Yountville, has been defining fine
dining for two decades. Evolving from a great place for locals to a must-stop
for visitors, Mustard's has achieved the status of wine country icon.
The dress is casual, but reservations are recommended (due both to its
popularity and its ideal location on Highway 29 just north of Yountville).
Find Out
More>>
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