We drink MERLOT

Good merlot that is! Is Merlot coming back? It seems to be. Sales, particularly of premium merlot, are inch by inch improving. There are in some places a shortage of merlot now, particularly with the Napa Bordeaux blending crowd.

So why this return to a modicum of favor? Well probably the fact that Merlot is a lovely drop. The reputation of merlot had plummeted in the early 2,000s. Not just because of the movie Sideways but because of over production and a glut of poor quality wine on the market. In California, growers pulled out more than 10,000 acres of merlot grapes. Some are probably regretting that decision now.

The revival is, we think more simply the fact that a decent merlot is a tasty drop and good ones are delicious. This Merlot Month of October we talk about three merlots from different regions and different price points. Look for the hashtag #merlotme and read about lots of different merlots from various people.

St Supery 2018 Napa Valley Rutherford Estate Vineyard Merlot SRP $70

88% Merlot, 10% Cabernet Sauvignon, 1% Cabernet Franc and, 1% Petit Verdot

St Supery vineyards and winery is a 100% Estate Grown sustainably farmed winery in the renowned Rutherford growing region in the heart of Napa Valley.

Winemaker notes -

A burgundy shade of red commence this wine. Aromas of black plum and black cherry combine with graphite, milk chocolate, and black pepper with a subtle thread of vanilla from the toasted oak. This is a generous merlot with nice freshness on the palate shoe casing juicy blackberry and toasted oak. There is a cocoa powder texture with smooth tannins and a long finish.

We really enjoyed this dark luscious wine which we found to be tight but with balance, freshness and brightness. With a little air it opened up and offered notes of cassis and purple fruits with subtle hints of chocolate, cedar, and tobacco. It shows off an elegant style with tannin structure showing through the finish.

You decide for yourself what you taste and smell, now get go out and get some to drink and enjoy.

Cheers to Merlot,