Merlot is Matanzas Creek’s benchmark wine, the wine that threw a spotlight on this small Sonoma County winery nearly three decades ago. It was good back in the day and it remains very good, as this 2011 makes very clear. This is a beautifully balanced, exquisite Merlot that’s a steal at the price. It exhibits intense aromas of plum and black currant, with the hint of cedar and lead pencil so commonly associated with Bordeaux. The tannins are modest and nicely integrated.
