This venerable brand reaches south for the fruit for this delicious Merlot – not a grape that you’d expect to shine in Monterey county, but one that shines brightly in this bottle. Cherry, soft oak spice and supple tannins lead to a burst of flavor in the finish, and the flavor keeps pumping. Score one for Monterey Merlot! A Platinum Award winner at the 2021 Monterey International Wine Competition.
Benziger Family Vineyard, Monterey County (California) Merlot 2018
By Rich Cook