Merlot from Virginia isn’t afraid to show off the terroir elements that come from local weather patterns and growing seasons, which often results in green characteristics that some tasters find overwhelming. They are perfectly managed here, appearing as mint on the nose and faint bell pepper on the palate, where a firm grip folds them in to the blackberry and black cherry fruit. This is ageworthy, so give it a good decant before serving near term.
Effingham Manor Winery, Virginia (United States) Merlot 2018
By Rich Cook