Bella Sera, Sicilia IGT (Sicily, Italy) Merlot 2009

 Having taken a whack at a Gallo product this week (see the review of MacMurray Ranch Pinot, below), I’m pleased to be able to say something nice about this Gallo import, which is very impressive for $8.  The fruit is pure and fresh without seeming grapey or obvious, and fresh acidity and some aromatic complexity even allow it to seem notably Italian in character.  I’m not wild about the label design, which to my eye makes the wine look less serious than it tastes, but that’s a matter of merely personal opinion, as I’m a professional judge of wine rather than graphic design.  And regarding what is inside this bottle, I’d emphasize that this is not a cheap wine, but a good wine at a cheap price.